What's the Latest News for DACA Recipients?

 Posted on February 11, 2026 in English

If you are a DACA recipient in 2026, you probably have questions about your future in the United States. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program has faced many changes recently. Understanding these changes is important for protecting yourself and your family.

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, there are about 525,000 active DACA recipients in the United States. This number has gone down recently, likely due to intensive immigration enforcement efforts from the Trump Administration. Many people are worried about what this means for their status.

If you have questions about your DACA status or need help with your renewal, our Herndon immigration lawyers can help you understand your options. Hablamos español.

Can You Still Renew Your DACA Status in 2026?

If you already have DACA, you can continue to renew your status. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is still accepting and processing DACA renewal requests. This is true no matter where you live in the United States.

However, you should know about some important changes. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals made a decision in January 2025 about the DACA program. The court said that DACA protection from deportation is legal and can continue. But the court also said that work permits might not be legal in the state of Texas.

This means that if you live in Texas, you may face problems getting your work permit renewed. If you live in Virginia or other states, you can still get both protection from deportation and work permits when you renew.

USCIS strongly recommends that you submit your DACA renewal request between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA expires. This means you should apply about four to five months early. If you wait too long, your DACA might expire before USCIS makes a decision on your renewal.

Can I File a New DACA Application in 2026?

Unfortunately, USCIS is not processing new DACA applications right now. If you never had DACA before, you cannot apply and get approved at this time, even if you meet all the previous requirements.

The courts blocked new people from entering the program. Only people who already have DACA can renew. This is frustrating for many young people who would qualify for DACA but cannot get it because of the court cases.

Some people hope that Congress will pass a law to help DACA recipients and other young immigrants. But right now, there is no clear path for this to happen.

Are DACA Recipients at Risk of Detention and Deportation?

Recent news shows that some DACA recipients have been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, also called ICE. In early 2026, advocacy organizations reported cases of DACA recipients being arrested and held by immigration officials.

According to official ICE statements, DACA recipients are generally considered low priority for deportation. This means ICE usually focuses on other people first. However, the recent expanded cooperation between local police and ICE means that DACA recipients may face more risk during routine encounters with law enforcement.

If you have any contact with police or immigration officials, you should:

• Always carry your current DACA approval notice
• Carry your employment authorization card
• Carry a valid photo identification
• Have proof that you have lived in the United States continuously

These documents show that you have legal temporary status. If you are ever detained, ask to speak with a lawyer immediately. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.

What Other Changes Have Happened to DACA Recently?

DACA recipients lost access to health insurance through the Affordable Care Act in June 2025. Before that date, about 11,000 DACA recipients were enrolled in ACA health insurance. Now, DACA recipients cannot buy health insurance through the ACA marketplace in any state.

Some states have also challenged whether DACA recipients can get in-state tuition rates at state colleges and universities. In Virginia, DACA recipients who meet the state's residency requirements can still get in-state tuition. Virginia also allows DACA recipients to get driver privilege cards.

Another challenge is processing delays at USCIS. The agency is taking longer to process applications. These delays can be dangerous for DACA recipients because if your renewal is not processed before your current DACA expires, you could fall out of status.

Call a Herndon, VA Immigration Lawyer Today

The situation for DACA recipients in 2026 is uncertain and changing. You need a supportive, full-service law firm with more than 20 years of experience helping immigrants in Virginia. Our Fairfax County immigration attorneys understand the challenges you face and can help you with DACA renewals, understanding your rights, and planning for your future.

We provide services in English and Spanish. Hablamos español. Contact Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC at 571-441-2233 to speak with an immigration attorney who understands your situation.