The Dream Act of 2025 creates a pathway for certain immigrants who came to the United States as children to become permanent residents. Specifically, it allows people who have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least four years, arrived before turning 18, and meet various other requirements to apply for permanent resident status on a conditional basis—meaning their status lasts eight years and can be made permanent if they meet additional criteria.

To qualify, applicants must have either graduated high school, earned a GED, been admitted to college, served in the military, or be currently enrolled in school. They also need to have no serious criminal convictions, pass background checks, and resolve any unpaid federal taxes. The law waives certain immigration violations for people who qualify, and it protects applicants from being deported while their cases are being considered. Young people still in school get extra protection—their removal cases are automatically paused while they're enrolled.

After eight years in conditional permanent resident status, people can apply to remove the "conditional" label and become regular permanent residents if they've completed college, served two years in the military, or worked for three years. The law also includes fee waivers for people under 18, homeless individuals, those with serious disabilities, and those with significant medical debt. Importantly, information provided in applications cannot be used for immigration enforcement purposes, though it can be shared with law enforcement for serious crimes or national security concerns.