Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

DACA protects certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children from deportation—but it is not a path to permanent residency.

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Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

DACA protects certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children from deportation—but it is not a path to permanent residency.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was created in 2012 to provide temporary relief from deportation to undocumented immigrants who entered the United States as minors. In 2017, the Trump administration canceled the program. While current DACA recipients can continue renewing their protection, no new applicants are being accepted at this time.

Today, approximately 580,000 people in the U.S. benefit from DACA. However, many more undocumented individuals would qualify if the program is reinstated in the future.

Who Qualifies for DACA?

To qualify for DACA, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

Arrived in the U.S. before June 15, 2007, and before turning 16 years old
Has lived continuously in the U.S. for at least five years
Is currently enrolled in school, has graduated from high school, or has obtained a GED

DACA recipients do not hold legal immigration status, but they are protected from deportation under this relief.

What Are the Benefits of DACA?

In addition to protection from deportation, DACA recipients are eligible for several key benefits:

Employment authorization that must be renewed every two years
Eligibility to apply for a driver’s license in all 50 states
Access to in-state tuition in many states
Possibility to apply for advance parole to travel outside the U.S. for critical reasons

It’s important to note that DACA protections can be revoked by the Department of Homeland Security at any time, as this program is not established by federal law but through executive action.

Does DACA Lead to Permanent Residency?

DACA is not a direct path to a green card or U.S. citizenship. Legal battles are ongoing, and while some advocates push for permanent solutions, no legislation has been passed to provide a formal path to permanent legal status for DACA recipients.

Until such laws are enacted, recipients remain in a state of legal uncertainty, especially those who aged into eligibility after the cutoff or arrived after June 2007.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Can US Immigration Counsel help me get a green card through family or marriage?
Yes. Whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen, have a relative sponsoring you, or need to adjust your status, we handle family-based green card cases with care and precision.

Q2: I’m facing deportation—can US Immigration Counsel defend me?
Absolutely. We fight deportation and removal cases in immigration court, build strong defenses, and pursue every legal option to protect your right to stay.

Q3: I’m applying for asylum or a humanitarian visa. Can she help?
Yes. We represent clients in asylum, VAWA, U Visa, and TPS cases—providing strong legal and emotional support throughout the process.

Q4: I want to become a U.S. citizen. Can US Immigration Counsel help me with naturalization?
Definitely. We guide clients through every step of the naturalization process, from preparing documents to interview coaching.

Q5: Can US Immigration Counsel help with immigration waivers or appeals?
Yes. If your case was denied or you need a waiver to move forward, we’ll review your options and build the strongest possible application or appeal.

Q6: I’m an employer looking to sponsor a foreign worker. Can you help?
Yes. We assist businesses and individuals with employment-based immigration, including work visas and green card sponsorship.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel help me bring a spouse, child, or parent to the U.S.?
Yes. Family-based immigration is one of our core strengths. Whether your loved one is already in the U.S. or abroad, we’ll guide you through every step to bring them home legally and securely.

Q: What if I already filed something on my own or with another lawyer?
No problem. We frequently help clients who started elsewhere or alone. We’ll review everything and let you know the smartest next step.

Q: Can I petition for family if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Depending on your current status, you may still qualify. During your consultation, we’ll explore all your options and determine the best path forward.

Q: I got a court notice—what should I do?
Contact us right away. Time is critical. We’ll review your case and act fast to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel represent me if I’m in another state or in detention?
Yes. We represent clients across the U.S. and even those currently in immigration custody. Wherever you are, we’re ready to help.

Q: What if I already lost my case?
There may still be legal options. Appeals, motions, or reopening your case could be possible—we’ll analyze everything and guide you on your next move.

Q: Do I have to be in Florida to work with US Immigration Counsel?
Not at all. Immigration law is federal, which means we can represent you whether you’re in another state or anywhere in the world. Our clients come from across the U.S. and beyond.

Q: Can we do everything remotely?
Yes. From virtual consultations to secure document sharing, our firm is fully equipped to support you no matter where you are. You’ll receive the same care and expertise as if you were sitting in our office.