The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025: A Historic Opportunity for Millions of Immigrants

The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025: A Historic Opportunity for Millions of Immigrants

June 2025
By Luciane Tavares, Immigration Attorney

The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025, formally introduced as H.R. 1589 in the U.S. House of Representatives, represents one of the most significant immigration reform efforts currently under consideration in Congress. As immigration policy remains a deeply contentious topic, this bill offers a glimmer of hope for millions of undocumented immigrants who have built their lives in the United States, including Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) beneficiaries.

While the bill has not yet become law, its implications are profound. For immigration attorneys, advocates, and affected families, understanding the nuances of this legislation is crucial. In this article, I will break down the key provisions, eligibility criteria, potential hurdles, and what this bill means for immigrant communities across the country.

Background: Who Are the Dreamers, TPS, and DED Holders?
Dreamers are individuals who were brought to the United States as children, often without legal immigration status. Many have grown up here, attended U.S. schools, and contributed to society, yet remain vulnerable to deportation. Programs like DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) provided temporary protection, but no permanent legal status.

TPS is a humanitarian program that allows individuals from certain countries experiencing armed conflict or environmental disasters to live and work legally in the U.S. DED offers similar, temporary relief from removal, often extended by executive order.

Overview of the Bill: H.R. 1589
The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025 was introduced on February 26, 2025, by Representatives Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) and María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), reflecting bipartisan interest in a solution. The bill closely resembles previous versions passed in the House but stalled in the Senate.

The legislation is divided into two main titles:

Title I - Dream Act Provisions:

  • Provides conditional permanent residency for 10 years to eligible Dreamers.
  • Allows adjustment to full lawful permanent resident (LPR) status upon meeting certain requirements.

Title II - Promise Act Provisions:

  • Offers direct access to LPR status for TPS and DED holders who meet eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Dreamers
To qualify under Title I, applicants must:

  • Have entered the U.S. before the age of 18.
  • Have resided continuously in the U.S. since January 1, 2021.
  • Be physically present in the U.S. at the time of application.
  • Have earned or be working toward a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Have no serious criminal convictions (including felonies or multiple misdemeanors).

To adjust to full permanent residency, the applicant must:

  • Complete 2 years of higher education, vocational training, or military service, OR
  • Work for at least 3 years while maintaining conditional status.

Eligibility Criteria for TPS and DED Holders
Under Title II, individuals who had TPS or DED status as of:

  • September 17, 2017 (for TPS)
  • January 20, 2021 (for DED)

...and have continuously resided in the U.S. since then may apply for LPR status. They must also meet standard admissibility criteria and not have disqualifying criminal records.

Protections and Benefits
Applicants under this bill would receive:

  • Protection from deportation while applications are pending.
  • Authorization to work and travel.
  • Access to federal financial aid and in-state tuition (if applicable).
  • Waivers of filing fees for low-income individuals.

Estimated Impact
According to estimates by the Migration Policy Institute, over 4.4 million individuals could benefit from the bill: approximately 2.7 million Dreamers, plus an additional 1.7 million TPS and DED recipients.

The bill would not only provide relief to immigrants but also inject stability into American communities, schools, and the labor force. By legalizing individuals who are already integrated into society, it strengthens the social and economic fabric of the country.

Current Legislative Status
As of June 2025, the bill is under review by the House Judiciary Committee and has not yet advanced to a floor vote. The Senate has yet to introduce a companion bill. Advocacy groups are actively pushing for congressional action, but the timeline remains uncertain, particularly in the context of the upcoming election cycle.

What Should Immigrants Do Now?
Though not yet law, the introduction of this bill is a strong signal that immigration reform is back on the national agenda. Individuals who may qualify should begin gathering documentation now:

  • Proof of continuous residence (bills, leases, school or medical records).
  • Proof of educational achievement or work history.
  • Criminal record checks, if applicable.

Being prepared can make a significant difference once a legislative or administrative window opens.

A Moment of Cautious Optimism
The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025 offers a long-overdue path to permanent residency for those who have lived in the shadows for too long. While it still faces political hurdles, the bipartisan support and broad public backing give cause for cautious optimism.

For immigrants, advocates, and attorneys alike, the time to act is now: prepare, stay informed, and advocate for change.

If you believe you or someone you know may qualify under this proposed legislation, I encourage you to reach out to our office for a consultation. Let us help you prepare for the day when this promise becomes a reality.