The U.S. government just announced it will begin accepting new DACA applications again after a four-year freeze. This is major news for thousands of “Dreamers” who have been waiting for the chance to apply.

At The Cruz Law Office, APC, we want to break down exactly who is eligible for DACA in 2025 and answer common questions about the program.

What Is DACA?

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program that protects certain undocumented immigrants known as “Dreamers” from deportation and provides them with work authorization.


The program has faced multiple court battles, but as of 2025, new applicants can finally apply again.

DACA Eligibility Criteria (2025 Update)

1. Age Requirement

  • You must have been under 16 years old when you entered the U.S. before June 15, 2007.
  • You must have been born on or after June 16, 1981.

👉 In 2025, that means the oldest possible applicant is 44 years old. If you are 45 or older, you cannot qualify.

2. Continuous Presence in the U.S.

  • Must have lived in the U.S. continuously since June 15, 2007.
  • Must have been physically present on June 15, 2012 (the date DACA was first announced).
  • Brief, innocent departures (like family emergencies) may be excused, but deportations or “voluntary returns” usually break eligibility.

👉 Example Screening Questions:

  • Were you living in the U.S. before June 15, 2007?
  • Have you ever been deported or signed a voluntary return?
  • If you left, was it brief and did you come right back?

3. Education or Military Service

You must meet one of the following:

  • Currently enrolled in school
  • Graduated from high school
  • Obtained a GED
  • Honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces or Coast Guard

4. Criminal Record Restrictions

Applicants are not eligible if they have:

  • A felony conviction
  • A significant misdemeanor (such as DUI, domestic violence, or burglary)
  • Three or more misdemeanors
  • Any record that suggests a threat to national security or public safety

5. Residency & Age at Filing

  • You must be living in the U.S. today.
  • You must be at least 15 years old to apply (younger applicants may apply if already in removal proceedings).

Quick DACA 2025 Checklist

✅ Born on or after June 16, 1981

✅ Entered the U.S. before June 15, 2007

✅ In the U.S. on June 15, 2012

✅ Currently living in the U.S.

✅ Meets education/military service requirement

✅ No disqualifying criminal record

Frequently Asked Questions About DACA (2025 Update)

Can I apply for DACA if I never applied before?

Yes. As of 2025, the government is accepting first-time applications again.

What if I applied before and was denied?

You may be eligible to apply again, depending on the reason for denial. Each case is unique.

Do I need to be in school right now?

Minor traffic tickets usually don’t disqualify you. Felonies, significant misdemeanors, or multiple
misdemeanors do. Always check with an immigration attorney.

How long does the DACA application process take?

Timelines vary, but expect several months for USCIS to process applications. Acting quickly is
important since legal challenges could affect the program in the future.

Final Word

The reopening of DACA is a life-changing opportunity for thousands of Dreamers in 2025. If you believe you may qualify, now is the time to take action.

At The Cruz Law Office, APC, our immigration team is ready to guide you through the process and protect your future.

For recent updates on DACA and the legal challenges surrounding it, you can read this article from AP News.

📞 Call us today at (877) 619-8472 or visit cruzlawoffice.com to schedule a consultation.