DACA/Deferred Action

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”) is a policy of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security under which certain undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children can apply, on a case-by-case basis, for a reprieve from deportation for a temporary period (currently, for two years) and, during that period, employment authorization.  If the applicant meets eligibility and other criteria, DHS may “defer” (i.e., postpone) taking “action” to deport that individual as a matter of prosecutorial discretion (hence the name “deferred action”). DACA is renewable, but it does not grant legal status or a path to citizenship.