How to Renew DACA in 2025: What You Need to Know

How to Renew DACA in 2025: What You Need to Know

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Halfway into 2025, thousands of Dreamers across the United States are once again preparing for their DACA renewal, their Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. With shifting immigration policies and political discourse continuing to shape the future of DACA, staying informed is more important than ever.

If you’re wondering how to renew DACA in 2025 or what changes might be ahead, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• Timely renewal is critical: Submitting your DACA renewal 120–150 days before expiration helps avoid gaps in protection and employment authorization due to processing delays.
• DACA remains limited but active: While new applications are still on hold due to legal rulings, renewals are currently allowed, and Dreamers should stay up to date on the latest policy developments.
• Political uncertainty affects DACA’s future: With political figures like Donald Trump weighing in during the 2025 election cycle, the program’s long-term outlook is still unclear, making legal guidance more important than ever.

What Is DACA?

DACA is a federal program established in 2012 by then-President Barack Obama that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children. While it does not provide a path to citizenship, DACA recipients—commonly referred to as “Dreamers”—can legally work, study, and live in the US as long as their protection is current.

This program has undergone a complex and often uncertain evolution since its creation. In 2017, the Trump administration announced its intention to terminate DACA, claiming it was unconstitutional and urging Congress to pass a permanent solution.

This decision sparked widespread backlash, triggering lawsuits across the country. Courts stepped in to block the termination, allowing current DACA recipients to continue renewing their protections, though new applications were halted.

The legal battles culminated in a significant 2020 Supreme Court decision, which found that the Trump administration’s attempt to end DACA was “arbitrary and capricious,” thereby allowing the program to continue—though still under threat.

In 2021, the Biden administration moved quickly to preserve DACA, issuing an executive order on the first day of the new presidency. The administration also called for legislative action to provide permanent protection for Dreamers, but Congress has yet to pass such a law.

In 2022, the Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule to formally codify DACA into regulation, aiming to strengthen its legal foundation and shield it from future legal attacks.

Despite these efforts, DACA remained under fire. In 2023, a federal judge in Texas again ruled that the program was unlawful.

While current recipients were still allowed to renew their DACA protections, new applications remained blocked. The decision was appealed and is expected to make its way back to the Supreme Court.

As of 2025, DACA renewals continue to be processed, but the future of the program remains uncertain. For now, Dreamers are advised to stay informed and renew as early as possible while legal protections are still in place.

DACA Renewal in 2025: Step-by-Step

The renewal process remains similar to previous years, though it’s always wise to check for the latest updates from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). Here are the general steps:

1. File Early—Ideally 120 to 150 Days Before Expiration

USCIS recommends applying for renewal four to five months before your current DACA expires. Delays in processing can happen, so the earlier you apply, the better.

2. Gather the Required Forms

You’ll need to submit:

• Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
• Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
• Form I-765WS (Worksheet)

3. Pay the Filing Fee

As of early 2025, the total renewal cost remains $495. Fee waivers are generally not available, so plan accordingly.

4. Submit Supporting Documentation (if needed)

If any of your personal information has changed (e.g., address, name, or criminal history), include documentation to explain the changes. If nothing has changed since your last application, USCIS generally does not require additional documents.

5. Track Your Case

Once filed, you can check the status of your renewal at USCIS. If your case is delayed beyond the expiration date, you may lose work authorization temporarily.

DACA News and 2025 Developments

DACA 2025 continues to be a hot topic in immigration news. Court cases and legislative efforts are ongoing, and while no final decision has eliminated the program, its future remains uncertain. As of now, new DACA applications are still not being accepted, but renewals are allowed under current federal court orders.

The political climate could also play a role in shaping DACA’s future. Discussions around immigration reform and executive actions continue, and advocates are pushing for permanent protections or a path to citizenship.

Trump on DACA in 2025

Current President Donald Trump previously attempted to rescind DACA during his first administration. While it’s not yet clear what his exact stance will be moving forward, early statements suggest a renewed focus on immigration enforcement. Dreamers should remain alert to any policy proposals that could affect renewals or the long-term status of the program.

Final Thoughts: Stay Proactive and Prepared

While DACA’s future may remain in flux, staying proactive about your renewal is crucial. Make a habit of checking DACA news, consulting an immigration attorney when necessary, and ensuring your application is complete and filed on time.

If you’re unsure where to start or need personalized help with your renewal, consider reaching out to a legal clinic or accredited immigration service provider.

Contact Kannan Law for support regarding your DACA renewal case. We are ready to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel internationally with DACA in 2025?

No, not automatically. DACA recipients must apply for Advance Parole through USCIS and receive approval before traveling abroad. Without it, leaving the US can jeopardize your DACA status and reentry.

Will a minor criminal offense affect my renewal in 2025?

Possibly. USCIS evaluates each renewal on a case-by-case basis. Even minor offenses can trigger a denial if they fall under disqualifying categories. It’s strongly recommended to consult an immigration attorney if you have any criminal history.

Can I switch jobs while my DACA renewal is pending?

Yes. As long as your current DACA and work permit are still valid, you may change jobs. However, if your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expires before renewal approval, you cannot legally work until the new card is issued.