Living with the uncertainty of immigration status places a constant burden on many residents in Boston and throughout Massachusetts. For those protected by Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), the question of what happens if DACA ends is not just a legal curiosity; it is a matter of career, family unity, and personal safety. The program has faced numerous legal challenges in federal courts, leading many to wonder about their future in the only country they call home.

DACA currently provides temporary protection from deportation and eligibility for work authorization. But because it is an executive action rather than a permanent law passed by Congress, its stability remains tied to court rulings and administrative shifts. If the program were to end, the immediate impact would likely involve the loss of work permits and a return to undocumented status for hundreds of thousands of individuals.

The Current Legal Standing of DACA

The status of DACA remains precarious due to ongoing litigation. In 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued a decision on the DACA Final Rule, finding significant portions of the program’s regulations unlawful. While the court allowed current recipients to continue renewing their status, it maintained the prohibition on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing new, initial applications (uscis.gov).

If a final court order or a change in federal policy ends the program, the transition would likely not happen overnight. In past attempts to phase out the program, there were grace periods or allowed windows for final renewals. Even so, the loss of this protection would mean that Dreamers could no longer legally work for employers in the Greater Boston area or maintain valid Social Security numbers for employment purposes.

Employment and Social Security After DACA

A primary concern for DACA recipients is the validity of their Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Your work permit is tied directly to your DACA status. If the program ends and your permit expires, you lose the legal right to work in the United States. Employers are required by federal law to verify employment eligibility, and they cannot legally continue to employ someone whose work authorization has lapsed.

However, it is worth noting that a Social Security number (SSN) issued for work purposes remains yours for life. While it may no longer entitle you to work without a valid EAD, the number itself does not disappear. You can still use it for tax filings or banking purposes. In Massachusetts, state-level protections regarding privacy and labor rights may offer some comfort, but they cannot override federal employment eligibility requirements.

Driver’s Licenses in Massachusetts

One significant area of concern for Dreamers in Boston is the ability to drive. Fortunately, Massachusetts passed the Work and Family Mobility Act, which allows residents to apply for a standard driver’s license regardless of their federal immigration status, which means that even if DACA were to end, individuals in Massachusetts would not necessarily lose their ability to drive legally, provided they meet the state’s requirements for identification and residency.

To obtain or renew a license under this act, you must provide the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) with specific documents, such as a valid foreign passport or a consular identification document. This state-level policy ensures that people can still get to school, take their children to appointments, and navigate the city without the fear of being cited for unlicensed driving simply because of their immigration status.

Exploring Alternative Pathways to Legal Status

Because DACA is temporary, we often encourage individuals to look for more permanent solutions. Depending on your specific situation, you might qualify for a different immigration category that does not rely on DACA.

You may be eligible for a family-based petition if you have a spouse or parent who is a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident. Other options include U or T visas for victims of certain crimes or human trafficking, as well as asylum for those fearing persecution in their home country. For younger Dreamers under 21, Massachusetts courts can also facilitate Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) in cases of parental abuse, abandonment, or neglect.

Preparing for the Future

The uncertainty surrounding the DACA program is stressful, but you do not have to wait for a crisis to understand your options. Taking proactive steps now can help you identify if you qualify for a more stable form of legal status. Laws change, and new policies are frequently introduced at both the state and federal levels. Staying informed is your best defense against the changing political landscape.

At Toland Law, LLC, we understand the specific challenges facing the immigrant community in Boston. We focus on providing clear, honest guidance to help families stay together and individuals pursue their goals. We offer free consultations to discuss your specific history and determine whether there is a residency pathway you may have overlooked.

If you are worried about the future of your DACA status or want to explore other immigration options in Massachusetts, we are here to help. Our team can review your case and provide a realistic assessment of your situation. Contact us at 857-347-3701 to schedule a time to talk about your future.

Toland Law, LLC