Immigrating to the United States is not a simple process. With roadblocks and complicated paperwork at seemingly every turn, the journey to a fulfilling life in the United States is not always an easy one. However, there are still many ways for immigrants to build a successful life in the United States. As a pro-immigrant state, Utah provides its undocumented community with ample opportunities to not just reside in the United States but to build a life in which they can thrive.
At Familia America, our experienced legal team knows the ins and outs of the Utah immigration system and all of the benefits that those who choose to live in this great state can take advantage of. Here are just a few of the ways that immigrants can lay the foundation for themselves in the Beehive State and resources to help make the most of the opportunities Utah affords its undocumented population:
Thanks to Senate Bill 227, signed into law on March 8, 2005, undocumented immigrants in Utah may obtain a driver's privilege card. This bill enables residents without proper documentation to obtain a driving privilege card, even if they do not have a Social Security number (SSN). Driver's privilege cards allow you to legally drive in Utah and serve as a valid form of identification as well. Additionally, the driving privilege must be renewed annually. If you're in need of a Utah driving privilege card or need to renew your existing one, click here.
Utah is not just an immigrant-friendly state. It is a business-friendly state as well. Undocumented individuals in the state of Utah may obtain a license to start their own business. The Suazo Business Center and the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are incredible resources for undocumented residents of Utah looking to start a business. You can also apply for a general contractor license by clicking here.
In April 2023, Utah passed a groundbreaking law known as Reciprocal Professional Licensing, which enables immigrants with professional training and licensing from other countries to obtain licenses in Utah. This law empowers nine departments in Utah to grant licenses to immigrants, allowing individuals from other states and countries to demonstrate the extensive experience and skills required for licensure. Another benefit of this bill is that once a license is recognized in Utah, it is generally acknowledged by most other states. To see if you qualify, click here.
In a landmark decision in December 2019, the Utah Supreme Court ruled that DACA recipients in Utah are eligible for admission to the Utah State Bar so long as they meet all the necessary requirements for admission.
Senate Bill 131, signed into law by the Utah Senate in March of 2015, allows undocumented residents of Utah who have occupational therapy licenses in another state or country and have passed their board exam to obtain their license in the state of Utah.
Thanks to several bills passed by Utah lawmakers, eligible undocumented residents of Utah, along with DACA recipients may take advantage of Utah's in-state tuition and financial aid opportunities. To receive these benefits, the eligible student must have:
Although federal law does prohibit immigrants in any state who lack the proper documentation from accessing most public services, there are still some exceptions. Emergency services, health care, and other programs that are deemed "necessary to protect life and safety" are available to undocumented residents.
Utah has adopted the Fair Housing Act (FHA) policy, which specifies that non-U.S. citizens lacking legal residency are disqualified from applying for FHA-insured loans. The FHA was adopted by Utah to safeguard individuals against discriminatory housing practices. However, the eligibility of DACA recipients for mortgages is influenced by the policies of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the state.
E-Verify was created by the USCIS to check the eligibility for employment of immigrants in the United States. E-Verify is an online database that contains information about people's immigration statuses. As of May 4, 2022, any employer with more than 150 employees is required to register for the E-verify system. This prohibits them from hiring employees whose legal working status they can't verify.
Residents without proper documentation may visit their country's official consulate in Utah for many different reasons. There are several foreign consulates in Utah. These consulates include Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, and Germany.
Address
660 S 200 E Ste. 300
Salt Lake City, UT 84111-3835
United States
Telephone
(+1) (801) 521 8502
(+1) (801) 521 8503
Fax
(+1) (801) 521 0534
asistentetitular_slc@sre.gob.mx
consuladoslc@consulmexslc.org
Address
2975 South Decker Lake Drive, # 200
West Valley City, UT 84119-6094
Hours
Phone Hours: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Window Filing Hours: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Phone
801-524-3000
David C. Anderson - internet-based; in person every Monday
Clerk: Amani Fogt
801-973-5809
Christopher M. Greer - internet-based; in person every Wednesday
Clerk: Nuvia Recinos
801-973-5804
Douglas Nelson - internet-based; in person every Thursday
Clerk: Dell Thorbs
801-973-5815
Phillip M. Truman - internet-based; in person every Tuesday
Clerk: Dell Thorbs
801-973-5815
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are both components of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It's important to note that they operate independently from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). Below are some helpful links to learn more about these DHS offices:
Holy Cross Ministries is dedicated to assisting immigrants in obtaining legal immigration status in the United States. The organization recognizes the pressing needs of low-income migrants in Utah and provides a range of immigration services at little to no cost. These services include legal consultation, family reunification programs, citizenship and naturalization services, and more. Additionally, Holy Cross Ministries offers orientation and counseling services at its Salt Lake City office.
Catholic Community Services of Utah's Migration and Refugee Services also plays an integral role in offering immigration services and support to immigrants and their families in Utah. The organization provides comprehensive assistance, including adjusting immigration status, processing employment authorization, family-based petitions, and asylum applications.
The International Rescue Committee in Salt Lake City is committed to responding to humanitarian crises and helping individuals rebuild their lives through a wide array of services and programs.
USCIS - United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
660 South 200 East
Suite 400
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
West Valley City - OPLA
Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, Denver (Salt Lake City)
2975 Decker Lake Drive, Stop C
West Valley City, UT 84119-6098
(801) 886-7300
West Valley City - EOR- ICE Field Office
Salt Lake City Field Office
2975 Decker Lake Drive
Suite 100
West Valley City, UT 84119-6096
(801) 886-7400
Area of Responsibility: Utah, Idaho, Montana, Nevada
Email: SaltLakeCity.Outreach@ice.dhs.gov
If you or a loved one are seeking legal guidance or assistance with immigration services and resources in Utah, don't hesitate. Reach out to us at Familia America. As experts in immigration law, we are committed to helping you navigate through the complexities of the process. We believe everyone has the right to explore new opportunities and create a better life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us be your guiding light in your immigration journey.
Attorney Gloria Cardenas brings more than 30 years of experience in immigration law to help protect the rights of clients and their family members. She and her knowledgeable team at Familia America work diligently behind the scenes to help process fiancé visa applications as quickly as possible. To learn more, contact the legal professionals at Familia America in Salt Lake City and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
