Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is a U.S. immigration policy that allows certain undocumented individuals who came to the country as children to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation. DACA recipients are eligible for work permits and can obtain Social Security numbers. However, DACA does not provide a path to legal permanent residency or U.S. citizenship.

Employment Authorization Documents ("Work Permit") and Renewals

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), commonly known as a "work permit," is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and grants immigrants the right to work in the United States. These permits are typically valid for one or two years and must be renewed before they expire. Renewal applications should be submitted well in advance to avoid employment interruptions.

Legal Permanent Residency ("Green Card"), Renewals, and Replacements

Legal Permanent Residency, often referred to as having a "Green Card," allows an individual to live and work permanently in the United States. Green Cards are usually valid for ten years and must be renewed before expiration. If a Green Card is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement card can be obtained through USCIS. Legal Permanent Residents have the option to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting specific eligibility criteria.

Naturalization (U.S. Citizenship)

Naturalization is the process by which a Legal Permanent Resident becomes a U.S. citizen. To be eligible, applicants typically must have held a Green Card for at least five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen), demonstrate good moral character, pass an English and civics test, and meet other requirements. Naturalized citizens gain the right to vote, obtain a U.S. passport, and are afforded all the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is granted to nationals of certain countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that make it unsafe for them to return. TPS beneficiaries are allowed to live and work in the U.S. for a limited period, which can be extended as conditions in their home countries remain problematic. TPS does not lead to permanent resident status but provides temporary relief from deportation and eligibility for an EAD.