Understanding DACA: What It Covers, Who Qualifies, and What Comes Next

DACA — Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals — has provided temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to hundreds of thousands of young immigrants since 2012. For many DACA recipients in Texas, the program has been the foundation of their ability to work, attend school, and build a life in the United States. Understanding what DACA covers, who qualifies, and how to protect your status with timely renewals is essential for every current and prospective recipient.

Attorney Olsa Alikaj-Cano at Cano Immigration, PLLC assists DACA recipients and applicants throughout Houston and Texas with renewals, eligibility questions, and planning for long-term immigration options. She also evaluates whether pathways to more permanent status — through family petitions or adjustment of status — may be available alongside DACA.

What DACA Provides

• Deferred Action: A temporary deferral of removal for a two-year period, renewable in two-year increments. Does not create lawful immigration status but protects recipients from deportation during the approved period.
• Work Authorization: Recipients receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allowing legal employment and access to a Social Security number.

DACA Eligibility Requirements

To qualify under current USCIS guidelines: under 31 as of June 15, 2012; arrived before age 16; continuous U.S. residence since June 15, 2007; physically present on June 15, 2012 and at time of filing; not in lawful status on June 15, 2012; no disqualifying criminal history; currently in school, graduated, obtained a GED, or honorably discharged veteran.

Renewals: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

DACA must be renewed every two years. USCIS recommends filing 150 to 180 days before expiration. Allowing DACA to lapse means losing both deferred action protection and work authorization. Attorney Alikaj-Cano proactively tracks renewal deadlines and prepares applications well in advance. Those with any criminal history should consult Cano Immigration’s crimmigration page before filing a renewal — certain charges can affect eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

DACA Help From Cano Immigration in Houston

Whether applying for the first time or renewing, DACA paperwork must be accurate and timely. Cano Immigration, PLLC helps DACA recipients in Houston and across Texas stay protected. Call (713) 974-8944 or reach out through the contact page.

About Cano Immigration, PLLC

Cano Immigration, PLLC is a full-service immigration law firm in Houston, Texas. Attorney Olsa Alikaj-Cano focuses on DACA, deportation defense, family immigration, and business immigration throughout Texas.