DACA Is (Almost) Back — Here’s What You Need to Know
- Laureen
- Oct 4
- 3 min read
After years of court battles and uncertainty, there’s finally a glimmer of good news for Dreamers. This week, the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice submitted a plan to the federal court in Texas that could reopen new DACA applications for the first time since 2017.
It’s not official yet — but for the first time in years, the door is cracking open. And that means now is the time to prepare.
What Happened
On September 29, 2025, the government filed a proposal in Texas v. United States asking Judge Hanen to allow USCIS to begin processing new DACA applications across most of the country.
Under the proposal:
Outside of Texas, people who meet the DACA requirements could once again apply for both deferred action and a work permit.
In Texas, because of the existing injunction, DACA recipients would receive protection from deportation but not a work permit.
The plan still needs the judge’s approval before it takes effect. But it’s a major step forward — one that advocates have been waiting on for years.
What This Means Right Now
For current DACA recipients, nothing changes today — you can (and should) keep renewing your DACA and work authorization as usual.
For first-time applicants, USCIS is still accepting new filings, but cannot approve them until the court lifts the restrictions. If Judge Hanen signs off on the plan, those applications could move forward quickly.
That’s why this is the moment to get ready.
What You Can Do to Prepare
If you believe you qualify for DACA, take steps now so you’re not scrambling later. Here’s how to plan ahead:
Collect your documents – proof of your identity, continuous residence since 2007, school records, and anything showing you were in the U.S. on June 15, 2012.
Check your eligibility – make sure you meet all the DACA requirements, including age, education, and clean criminal history.
Talk to an attorney or accredited representative – before filing anything, get legal advice tailored to your case.
Avoid scams – beware of anyone promising to “get you approved” now. The government proposal is not yet in effect. (But we can start to prepare new applications).
Once the court gives the green light, those who have prepared their evidence and forms will be in the best position to file immediately.
A Quick Refresher: Who Qualifies for DACA?
To qualify, you must have:
Arrived in the U.S. before your 16th birthday
Lived continuously in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
Been under age 31 on June 15, 2012
Been physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and when applying
Had no lawful immigration status on that date
Currently be in school, have graduated or obtained a GED, or be an honorably discharged veteran
No serious criminal history
The Bottom Line
After years of legal limbo, this is the closest DACA has come to reopening for new applicants. It’s not final yet — but it’s the first real movement in a long time, and it’s worth getting ready.
At Katsivalis & Anderson Law, we’re cautiously optimistic but fully prepared. We’ll be tracking every development in court and will notify our clients the moment new applications can officially move forward.
If you think you may qualify for DACA, now is the time to gather your records, get legal guidance, and be ready to file when the opportunity comes. Contact us today to get started.
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