US to Resume DACA Applications After 2021 Freeze
The US federal government is set to resume processing initial DACA applications for undocumented immigrants brought to America as minors, marking the first time since 2021 that new applications will be accepted nationwide.
Key Updates on DACA Resumption
- New DACA applications to be processed for first time since 2021
- Texas residents excluded from work permits due to court injunction
- Over 800,000 current DACA recipients continue to be protected
- Federal judge to make final decision on program resumption
Court Rulings and Geographic Limitations
In January 2025, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled DACA unlawful but narrowed the injunction to apply only in Texas. The federal government filed a new DACA plan in Texas district court on September 29 to resume processing.
Under the proposed rules, USCIS will base geographic limitations on the applicant’s state of residence rather than employment location. While Texas applicants would receive deportation protection, they would not be eligible for work authorization.
DACA Eligibility Requirements
The program continues to protect individuals who:
- Entered the US before age 16
- Have resided in the US since June 2007
- Were under age 31 as of June 15, 2012 (born on or after June 16, 1981)
Legislative Developments
On February 26, Congresswomen Sylvia Garcia and Pramila Jayapal reintroduced the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act of 2025, which would create a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers.
Economic Impact of DACA
The program has enabled over 800,000 Dreamers to live and work legally in their communities. DACA recipients contribute significantly to the economy, paying approximately $6.2 billion in federal taxes and $3.3 billion in state and local taxes annually.
According to the Center for American Progress, providing Dreamers with a pathway to citizenship could boost national GDP by $799 billion over the next decade.
