American Dream and Promise Act of 2025

This bill, called the American Dream and Promise Act of 2025, would create a way for many long‑time residents to get lawful permanent status (a green card). It focuses on two groups: people who came to the U.S. as children (“Dreamers”) and certain people from countries with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED).

For people brought here as kids, you could apply if you’ve lived in the U.S. since January 1, 2021, came at age 18 or younger, and meet school or education rules. If approved, you would receive a 10‑year “conditional” green card, with the chance to become a full permanent resident by completing college, serving at least two years in the U.S. military, or working and showing three years of earned income. There are hardship exceptions for people with disabilities, full‑time caregivers, or families who would face hardship. Background checks are required.

For TPS or DED holders, you could apply for a green card within three years after the law takes effect if you have been in the U.S. at least three years. The application fee is capped, and some issues can be waived for humanitarian or family reasons, but serious crimes make you ineligible.

The bill also protects applicants from deportation while their case is pending, allows work permits and travel on advance parole, sets fair rules for how time in the U.S. is counted (with exceptions for emergencies and authorized travel), and removes any nationwide cap on the number of people who can be approved under this bill.

It lets states decide who qualifies for in‑state tuition and other college benefits by repealing a 1996 restriction.

People with DACA get a streamlined process with no initial fee for conditional status, and Selective Service registration is required for those who must register. If your application is denied, you can appeal and generally cannot be removed while the review is underway; appointed counsel is available for court review, funded by a small $25 surcharge on application fees. A new grant program would help nonprofits guide applicants.

Key points

• Who is affected: Dreamers; certain TPS and DED holders; and some young people under 18 who get protection from removal while finishing education.
• What changes: A path to a green card; work permits and travel while applying; no cap on approvals; states can set in‑state tuition rules.
• Basic requirements: Background checks; education, service, or work milestones for Dreamers; TPS/DED applicants must have three years’ U.S. presence and apply within three years.
• Limits and safeguards: People with certain serious crimes are not eligible; some waivers are allowed for humanitarian or family reasons.