DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is a U.S. immigration policy that allows certain individuals who entered the country as children and meet specific criteria to receive a renewable two-year deferral from deportation and eligibility for an employment authorization document (work permit).
DACA Applications Overview
- Initially established in 2012, to apply for DACA applicants must file forms I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and I-765WS (Worksheet), along with supporting documents and a $495 fee.
- Applicants must have entered the U.S. before age 16, lived continuously since June 15, 2007, be under 31 as of June 15, 2012, and meet education or military service requirements among other criteria.
- The program does not provide permanent legal status or citizenship but protects from deportation temporarily.
Recent Updates on DACA Applications
- For the first time in four years, as of late September 2025, the U.S. federal government plans to accept and process new (initial) DACA applications across most states, except Texas.
- Texas residents with DACA can keep deportation protection but may lose work authorization under the new proposal due to ongoing litigation.
- This reopening proposal is subject to approval from U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen and is part of ongoing legal proceedings related to the policy.
Application Process Key Points
- Applicants must submit the required forms online or by mail and can track their case through a USCIS online account.
- Renewal requests are encouraged 120 to 150 days before the expiration of current DACA status, also requiring a $495 fee.
In summary, DACA applications are open for new applicants again nationwide (except Texas) after a multi-year pause, maintaining the protections and work authorization eligibility for most recipients, pending court decisions. The process involves submitting specific USCIS forms and fees, with eligibility based on entry timing and education or military criteria.
