DACA Recipients
Current Status of DACA
As of January 2025, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling against the DACA program but allowed it to remain in place temporarily. As a result, current DACA recipients may continue to renew their protections.
The ruling:
- Applies only to Texas
- Targets the work authorization component of DACA
What this means for recipients:
- Renewal applications continue to be accepted and processed
- Initial (first-time) applications are not being approved at this time
- New applications may still be submitted, but cannot be processed unless permitted by future court decisions or federal legislation
At this time, there are no changes for current DACA recipients, including those residing in Texas.
However, the future of DACA—particularly work authorization in Texas—remains uncertain. There is also concern that similar legal challenges may emerge in other states.
Know that I remain committed to protecting Dreamers and fighting for a permanent solution in Congress.
DACA Renewals
If you are a current recipient, you are encouraged to renew your DACA status on time. Please review our DACA renewal guidance for important instructions and deadlines.
Know Your Rights
It’s important to remember that you have rights, regardless of your immigration status. I have them listed on my Know Rights Page. Visit the National Immigration Law Center’s “Know Your Rights” resource page for guidance on how to respond if immigration enforcement officers come to your home.
Avoid Immigration Scams
- Be cautious of scams: Do not trust individuals claiming new fees or special access to DACA processing.
- Seek qualified legal assistance: Only consult a licensed attorney or a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accredited representative.
- Avoid “notarios”: Notaries public and immigration consultants are not authorized to provide legal representation in immigration matters.
To find trusted legal assistance, visit: www.immigrationlawhelp.org
Local Community Resources
Below are local resources available to provide assistance to DACA recipients.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC-LA)
AAJC-LA is the nation's largest legal and civil rights organizations for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. AAJC-LA provides immigration legal information, counseling and representation to individuals in over 7 different languages.
https://www.advancingjustice-la.org
(888) 349-9695
Centro CHA
Centro CHA is a community-based nonprofit and BIA accredited organization in Long Beach that provides assistance with naturalization and DACA.
www.centrocha.org
(562) 612-1407
CHIRLA
CHIRLA is approved by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) to provide immigration legal services at low-cost, including naturalization permanent residency, and DACA benefits.
www.chirla.org
(213) 353-1333
National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
NILC is one of the leading organizations in the U.S. exclusively dedicated to defending and advancing the rights of immigrants with low income.
www.nilc.org/issues/daca
(213) 639-3900