Orlando is home to vibrant immigrant communities that power Central Florida’s workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods. Yet for many undocumented individuals and families, daily life comes with uncertainty about work authorization, family stability, and what could happen if immigration enforcement becomes a reality.
The good news is that “undocumented” does not always mean “without options.” Depending on your history, your country of origin, and your personal circumstances, you may have pathways for protection or legal status. Below is a practical, Orlando-focused overview of three major forms of immigration relief that often come up in consultations: DACA, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and asylum.
Pozo Goldstein, LLP, an Orlando immigration law firm, helps individuals and families evaluate eligibility, prepare filings, and navigate the ever-changing policies that affect immigration relief. If you are looking for an Orlando immigration lawyer who understands both the law and the local community, the right legal strategy can make an enormous difference.
DACA in 2026: Renewals Continue, Initial Requests Remain on Hold
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has been in legal limbo for years, and it remains a critical program for many Dreamers in Central Florida. The most important practical takeaway right now is this:
- USCIS continues to accept DACA requests, but initial (first-time) DACA requests are not being processed at this time.
- DACA renewals are generally still being processed, which means eligible recipients may be able to extend deferred action and apply to renew work authorization.
For Orlando residents, this creates two very different realities: current DACA recipients may still have a workable renewal path, while many otherwise-eligible first-time applicants remain stuck waiting for court or policy changes.
Because timing is everything with DACA renewals (especially for employment planning), Pozo Goldstein, LLP often assists clients with building a renewal calendar, confirming eligibility, and preparing clean, well-documented submissions. If you need Orlando immigration assistance with DACA, it is wise to get guidance early rather than waiting until an expiration date is close.
TPS Updates: Country-Specific Rules Can Change Quickly
TPS is a humanitarian protection available to nationals of certain countries designated by the U.S. government due to conditions like armed conflict or natural disasters. TPS can provide protection from removal and, in many cases, eligibility for work authorization during the designation period.
What makes TPS tricky is that the rules are highly country-specific and can change through Federal Register notices, USCIS updates, and litigation. Recent examples illustrate why staying current matters:
- Haiti: DHS has published a notice terminating Haiti’s TPS designation effective February 3, 2026 (with details in the Federal Register notice). (Federal Register)
- Ethiopia: USCIS notes TPS benefits under Ethiopia’s designation will end February 13, 2026 (based on the published notice). (USCIS)
- El Salvador: A Federal Register notice reflects an extension running through September 9, 2026 (based on the 18-month extension described in the notice). (Federal Register)
- Venezuela: USCIS has posted updates regarding TPS-related documentation and extensions tied to prior designation dates. (USCIS)
For many Central Florida families, TPS is not only about safety, but also about keeping jobs, maintaining driver’s license eligibility where applicable, and supporting U.S. citizen children and spouses. An experienced Orlando immigration lawyer can help you confirm whether you qualify for initial registration or re-registration, prepare the work permit application, and explore longer-term strategies beyond TPS, since TPS is temporary by design.
Asylum in Central Florida: Deadlines, Procedure Changes, and Increased Screening
Asylum is a complex area of immigration law, and it is also one of the most policy-sensitive. In general, asylum may be available to people who fear persecution in their home country based on a protected ground (such as political opinion, religion, nationality, race, or membership in a particular social group). The process differs depending on whether you apply affirmatively (through USCIS) or defensively (in removal proceedings).
Two updates matter right now for individuals considering asylum:
- Rule and screening changes can impact processing. USCIS and the Federal Register have posted updates and rule notices related to asylum processing and security-related bars, including changes taking effect at the end of 2025.
- Asylum adjudications and timelines may shift. Public reporting has indicated USCIS temporarily suspended asylum decisions at the end of November 2025 pending additional vetting/screening processes.
In addition, filing requirements can change. USCIS has issued alerts tied to Form I-589 (the asylum application), including updates about postmark dates and proper fees. (USCIS)
For Orlando residents, the practical point is not to “wait and see” if you may have a viable asylum claim. Delays can create serious problems, including missed deadlines and lost evidence. A strong asylum case often depends on careful documentation: personal declarations, corroborating records, country-condition evidence, and consistency across all prior immigration interactions.
Pozo Goldstein, LLP provides Orlando immigration assistance for asylum seekers by helping clients understand which process applies, preparing evidence, and navigating interviews or court proceedings with a strategy tailored to the person’s history and risk factors.
A Local Note for Orlando: Relief Often Overlaps
Many people assume they must fit neatly into one category, but relief can overlap. For example:
- A TPS holder may also have a family-based option through a U.S. citizen spouse.
- A DACA recipient may have a separate pathway through marriage, employment, or other humanitarian relief.
- An asylum seeker may also qualify for related protections if asylum is not available.
Because each case turns on details, working with an Orlando immigration lawyer who can spot multiple options is often the difference between a temporary fix and a long-term plan.
Talk to Pozo Goldstein, LLP About Your Options
If you or a loved one is undocumented in Central Florida and wondering what relief might be possible, Pozo Goldstein, LLP can help you evaluate DACA renewal options, determine TPS eligibility based on your country and dates, and assess whether asylum or related protections may apply. Immigration policies change quickly, and your strategy should be based on the most current rules and your specific facts.
For trusted Orlando immigration assistance, contact Pozo Goldstein, LLP to schedule a consultation and get guidance tailored to your situation.
