1. What does DACA stand for?

DACA stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. It’s a U.S. immigration policy that allows certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the country as children to receive temporary protection from deportation and a renewable work permit.

2. When did DACA start?

DACA began on June 15, 2012, after an executive order by President Barack Obama. The policy was created as a temporary solution following Congress’s repeated failure to pass the DREAM Act.

3. Who qualifies for DACA?

To qualify for DACA, applicants must:

• Have arrived in the U.S. before age 16
• Have lived continuously in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
• Be under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012
• Have no serious criminal convictions
• Be currently in school, graduated, or have served honorably in the U.S. military

4. Does DACA give you citizenship?

No. DACA does not provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. It only offers temporary protection from deportation and a renewable work permit, valid for two years at a time.

5. How many people have DACA today?

As of 2025, approximately 533,000 people are active DACA recipients. An estimated 1.1 million could be eligible if the program reopens to new applicants, according to DHS data.

6. Can you apply for DACA right now (2025)?

The Biden administration announced plans in October 2025 to reopen DACA for new applicants. However, the Texas lawsuit (led by Attorney General Ken Paxton) currently prevents first-time applications from being processed in that state. Renewals are still allowed nationwide.

7. What benefits does DACA provide?

DACA recipients receive:

• A work permit (EAD)
• A Social Security number
• Protection from deportation for two years (renewable)
• In some states, access to driver’s licenses and in-state college tuition

8. Can DACA recipients travel outside the U.S.?

Yes, but only with special permission known as Advance Parole. It allows DACA recipients to travel abroad temporarily for educational, humanitarian, or employment reasons — and re-enter the U.S. legally. Without it, leaving the U.S. could void their DACA status.

9. Why is DACA under legal threat?

Several states, led by Texas, argue DACA was created unlawfully without congressional approval. Federal judges have agreed in part, saying the executive branch exceeded its authority. Until Congress passes a permanent law, DACA remains vulnerable to being overturned by the courts.

10. What’s the future of DACA?

DACA’s future depends on ongoing court battles and congressional action. The Biden administration is defending the program, but experts warn that only legislation — not executive orders — can secure permanent status for Dreamers.

Still, DACA remains one of the most popular immigration programs in U.S. history, supported by a bipartisan majority of Americans.