On March 11, 2025, the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program can continue moving forward, marking a significant victory for DACA-eligible individuals across the nation. This decision follows years of legal battles surrounding the fate of DACA, which was first created in 2012 to protect undocumented young people from deportation and grant them work authorization. 

A 2021 ruling by a federal judge in Texas stopped anyone new from enrolling in DACA. Since that time the outcome of DACA has been pending, with multiple lawsuits being filed in the federal courts. Although new DACA applications were not being processed during the pending litigation, DACA renewals have still been allowed to process with USCIS (United States Citizenship & Immigration Services). 

Importantly, the 5th Circuit ruling reopens the possibility for first-time DACA applicants, a critical development that advocates have fought tirelessly for. Until now, new applications had been on hold, leaving many young people unable to benefit from the protections DACA provides. This decision, which applies to all 50 states, represents a step forward for an estimated 1.6 million eligible Dreamers who may now be able to seek the protection they deserve.

However, the battle is far from over. The Trump Administration's response to this ruling remains uncertain. There is concern that the Administration may continue its efforts to dismantle DACA, despite widespread public support for the program. While this ruling provides hope, advocates remain vigilant, and are staying alert to the Administration's guidance for USCIS filings. We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure you are informed as soon as DACA initial applications are open again on the USCIS website. 

For now, DACA recipients are encouraged to renew their status and seek legal advice, as the future of the program remains in flux. Despite the challenges ahead, immigrant youth and their allies are determined to ensure that DACA continues to provide opportunities for a brighter, more secure future.

It is very important that if you are a current DACA recipient you file to renew your status before it expires, at least 150 days prior to its expiration. 

If you need assistance filing for DACA, or any other immigration petition, you can reach us at (757) 422-8472, or send us a message on our website. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys by clicking on this link.