DACA Frequently Asked Questions

Themes/Topics: Law & Policy

Geography: California, National

Audience: Ally, Educator, Undocumented Youth

(Last updated March 18, 2025) – On January 17, 2025, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the DACA policy but allowed its current protections to continue. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals sent the case back to Judge Hanen to decide when and how the severance of work authorization from the DACA program would take place in Texas. This ruling has also opened the possibility of USCIS processing initial DACA applications in the near future. While this ruling went into effect on March 11, 2025, official guidances have not been released by Judge Hanen, USCIS, or DHS on how the changes would take place in regards to initial applications, renewals for Texas residents, or severance of work permits from DACA in Texas. Meanwhile, the DACA program continues as prior to January 17, 2025: current DACA recipients can continue renewing their DACA and receiving protection from deportation and work authorization nationwide—including in Texas.

1. I’ve never had DACA. Can I apply for DACA for the first time?

USCIS has not yet started processing initial DACA applications. This means that although USCIS will still accept applications from people applying for DACA for the first time, the court order prevents USCIS from processing or approving these applications. This means that if you submit a first-time application, USCIS will keep the fee but will not take action on your application. Beginning April 1, 2024, the fee to renew DACA online will increase to $555 and $605 to renew on paper.

Check USCIS’ DACA page for updated information.

2. If I have DACA right now, can I still renew?

Yes, if you have DACA right now or have had it in the past, you can still renew. The United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends that you submit your renewal between 150 to 120 days from the expiration date of your current DACA.

3. Can I apply for Advance Parole?

Yes. Advance Parole is still available to current DACA recipients. Advance Parole will only be granted for humanitarian, educational, and employment purposes. Some examples of this are traveling to visit a sick relative (humanitarian), study abroad programs through school or academic research (educational), or attending conferences and trainings (work).

NOTE: Advance Parole applications must be approved BEFORE traveling outside of the U.S. Being granted Advance Parole does not guarantee re-entry. It is important that you speak with an immigration attorney to understand your situation before traveling outside of the U.S.

4. Where can I get support in filling out my DACA application?

We encourage you to visit ImmigrationLawHelp.org to find nonprofits, which may offer free or lower fee services than private attorneys. You can also visit AILALawyer.com to find private attorneys who may be able to respond to your needs more quickly.

5. Where can I get information about immigration options beyond DACA?

Online screening tools (like immi) and legal services offered by nonprofit organizations are cost-effective ways to learn about your potential immigration options beyond DACA. Click here to learn how to find a reliable immigration legal services provider.

References:

Immigrants Rising helps you make decisions based on your potential, not your perceived limits. Visit our website so you can see what’s possible: immigrantsrising.org. Revised 3/2025.

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