What is DACA and who qualifies?

Imagine Growing Up American—But Not Being Recognized as One

You’ve gone to school here. You’ve pledged allegiance to the flag. You cheer for the same teams, watch the same shows, and dream the same dreams. But there’s one thing that sets you apart—you weren’t born in the U.S., and you don’t have legal status here. That’s the reality for hundreds of thousands of young people brought to the U.S. as children.

Enter DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals—a policy that has changed lives and sparked fierce political debate. But what exactly is DACA, and more importantly, who qualifies?

Let’s break it down.

What Is DACA?

DACA is a U.S. immigration policy first introduced by the Obama administration in June 2012. Its purpose? To provide temporary relief from deportation for certain undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children.

It doesn’t offer a path to citizenship, and it’s not a permanent legal status. But for those who qualify, DACA allows them to:

• Live in the U.S. without fear of removal
• Work legally through a renewable work permit
• Access certain benefits, like getting a driver’s license in most states

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), DACA is granted for a renewable two-year period and does not grant lawful immigration status.

A Quick Timeline of DACA’s Rollercoaster Journey

• 2012: DACA is established by executive action.
• 2017: The Trump administration announces its intent to end DACA.
• 2020: The Supreme Court rules the attempt to end DACA was unlawful, keeping the program alive (for now).
• 2021–2023: Legal challenges continue. New applications are paused, but renewals are still being processed.

As of 2024, the future of DACA is still uncertain, with federal court rulings and legislative efforts still in flux.

You can follow the latest updates directly from USCIS’s DACA page.

Who Qualifies for DACA?

To be eligible for DACA, you must meet several specific criteria. Here’s what the USCIS requires:

✅ You May Qualify If You:

1. Were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012
2. Came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday
3. Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
4. Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time of your application
5. Entered the U.S. without inspection or your lawful status expired before June 15, 2012
6. Are currently in school, have graduated, obtained a GED, or were honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces
7. Have no felony convictions, significant misdemeanors, or pose a threat to national security or public safety

💡 Pro tip: Meeting the criteria doesn’t guarantee approval. USCIS reviews each case individually, and documentation is key.

For the full list and supporting documentation requirements, check USCIS’s guidelines.

How to Apply for DACA (When Available)

As of early 2025, new DACA applications are still on hold due to ongoing litigation. However, renewals for existing recipients are being processed.

If and when applications reopen, here’s a simplified version of the process:

Steps to Apply:

1. Gather Documents – Proof of identity, proof of entry before age 16, proof of residency since 2007, and school or military records.
2. Complete Forms – Forms I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action), I-765 (Work Authorization), and I-765WS (economic necessity).
3. Pay the Fee – Currently $495 (subject to change).
4. Submit Biometrics – You’ll need to attend a USCIS appointment for fingerprinting and photos.
5. Wait for USCIS Review – They’ll assess your application and respond with approval, denial, or a request for more evidence.

You can find updated instructions on USCIS’s official site.

Why Does DACA Matter?

The numbers tell part of the story: more than 580,000 active DACA recipients live across the U.S. as of 2023 (Migration Policy Institute).

But behind each number is a story:

• A student aiming for medical school
• A teacher shaping young minds
• An entrepreneur starting a local business

These individuals are often referred to as “Dreamers,” based on the DREAM Act—a piece of legislation that has yet to become law. DACA is essentially a band-aid solution, offering protection without the permanence that many Dreamers hope for.

DACA: Hope, Uncertainty, and the Fight for Reform

Let’s not sugarcoat it: DACA recipients live in limbo. They pay taxes, work in essential roles, and contribute to society—yet have no guarantee of long-term security.

Efforts to turn DACA into a more permanent solution have stalled in Congress, though various bipartisan bills have been proposed. The American public overwhelmingly supports giving Dreamers a path to citizenship, according to Pew Research.

Still, legal battles continue, and each new court decision brings a fresh wave of hope—or anxiety—for DACA recipients and their families.

Real Stories: What DACA Means in Everyday Life

Take Isabel, for example. She came to the U.S. from Mexico when she was 5. By the time she graduated high school, she was at the top of her class—but couldn’t access student loans or state aid because of her status.

When DACA was introduced, it changed everything. She got a work permit, enrolled in college, and today she works as a nurse saving lives every day. Her story mirrors thousands of others across the country.

That’s the power—and the limitation—of DACA. It can open doors, but it doesn’t build the house.

FAQs About DACA

1. Is DACA still active in 2025?

Yes, but with limitations. As of early 2025, new applications are paused, but renewals are still being processed. Always check USCIS updates for the latest.

2. Can DACA recipients travel outside the U.S.?

Only with Advance Parole, a special travel permit. It’s granted for specific reasons like education, work, or humanitarian needs.

3. Does DACA lead to a green card or citizenship?

No. DACA is not a path to permanent residency or citizenship, although many hope that future legislation will change this.

4. What happens if my DACA expires?

You lose work authorization and protection from deportation. Renew as early as possible—USCIS recommends applying 120–150 days before expiration.

5. What if I miss the DACA deadline or criteria?

Consult an immigration attorney or a trusted nonprofit legal aid organization like Immigrant Legal Resource Center. There may be other forms of relief available.

Final Thoughts: DACA Is More Than a Policy—It’s a Lifeline

DACA isn’t just an acronym. It’s a real, tangible form of hope for those who call America home, even if they weren’t born here. But it’s also fragile—reliant on shifting political winds and court rulings.

If you or someone you know is a DACA recipient or potential applicant, staying informed is key. Follow trusted resources, talk to immigration advocates, and push for comprehensive reform that moves beyond temporary protection.

The American Dream shouldn’t come with an expiration date.