Definition

Deferred Action

Administrative decision to defer removal of a noncitizen for a specific period.

Deferred action is a discretionary form of prosecutorial discretion that does not confer lawful status but defers removal and may make the recipient eligible for work authorization. DACA is the largest deferred action program; ICE and USCIS may grant deferred action in individual cases.

See also

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Discretionary protection from deportation for certain people brought to the U.S. as children.
Prosecutorial Discretion

Government decisions to focus enforcement resources on certain cases and not others.
Voluntary Departure

Permission to leave the U.S. on your own without a removal order on your record.

Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.