The term "DREAMer" in the United States describes undocumented immigrants who were brought to the country as children, often at a young age, and who have lived in America, gone to American schools, and identified the U.S. as home. The DREAM Act, which stands for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors, was first sponsored in Congress in 2001 but has not yet been signed into law. This is where the name originates.
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy has given protection to many of these young people since 2012.
DACA is an Obama administration initiative that grants qualifying undocumented youths the following benefits: Two-year renewable protection from:
DACA eligibility requirements include being in the country continuously since 2007; arriving before the age of 16; and not having a major criminal record.
"We define the term "undocumented" broadly to include all immigrants who reside in the United States without legal status.
This includes individuals who: entered without inspection...entered with legal status but overstayed...have or previously had Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)...are currently in the process of legalizing...[and] vulnerable immigrants." -Immigrants Rising
DACA Updates - What DACA recipients Should Know in 2025
1. Renewals are still available.
You can still renew your DACA status and work permit if you currently hold one. The cost of renewal is $605 by mail or $555 online.
2. Requesting DACA for the first time.
Although new applications can be submitted, DHS is currently prohibited from granting initial DACA requests and related employment authorization that are submitted after July 16, 2021.
3. Legal Uncertainty
Early in 2025, a court decision ruled that many aspects of DACA were unlawful, but it did not end the program. Although current DACA recipients are currently safe, things could change in the future. Keep yourself informed and, if necessary, consult an immigration lawyer.
4. Work and Travel
You are still able to work lawfully in the United States with DACA. Traveling outside of the United States may jeopardize your status because advance parole (travel permits) is limited. Always consult a lawyer before planning a trip abroad.
5. No Permanent Solutions Currently
Dreamers do not yet have a permanent route to citizenship. Although Congress has not yet enacted new legislation to protect DACA recipients, advocacy efforts continue.
HAWM website
For information on the most recent updates regarding DACA, see the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services website.