Georgia State Immigration Laws

In 2011, Georgia enacted a strict set of immigration laws covering a wide range of activities relating to daily life. For starters, however, it is important to be aware of the relationship between state and federal law when it comes to subjects involving immigration. Below you will find information on what, if any, rules Georgia has regarding immigration checks by law enforcement, educational institutions, and employers, as well as the existence of E-Verify requirements, restrictions on public benefits based on an individual's immigration status, and more. Lastly, please note that many of these provisions have been challenged in court and some are subject to blocks on their enforcement. For the most up-to-date information you may want to contact a local immigration attorney.

Law Enforcement and Immigration in Georgia

One controversial aspect of Georgia's immigration law is a requirement that law enforcement officers check the immigration status of suspects who cannot provide identification upon request. The law applies to individuals subject to a traffic stop, but makes exceptions for victims of crime and witnesses. Even though immigration and enforcement are typically matters dealt with by federal immigration authorities, an increasing number of local and county law enforcement officials, such as those in Georgia, are starting to assist with, investigate, or pursue suspected immigration-related offenses.

Additionally, under a federal program known as "Secure Communities," all individuals arrested are fingerprinted and run through a database which checks their immigration status. However, some states are considering and sometimes passing legislation permitting local governments to "opt out" of such programs.

Employment Checks

Georgia's law makes it a crime for individuals to seek and/or acquire work using fake identification documents. It imposes severe penalties on violators, including prison time and fines.

Georgia E-Verify Requirements

Georgia requires all employers -- including private employers of all sizes -- to use E-Verify to verify their workers' and new hires' authorization to work.

Driver's License/ID Requirements

Georgia requires that all applicants for driver's licenses provide proof of identity, residency in the state, and citizenship or lawful residence in the U.S. Please refer to Georgia's Department of Driver's Services for more information.

Public Benefits Restrictions

Under federal law, illegal immigrants are prohibited from receiving public benefits, although they are allowed to receive emergency services, health care, and other programs that have been identified as "necessary to protect life and safety." Georgia's new law also imposes identification requirements on individuals seeking a variety of public benefits, such as food stamps.

Educational Rules and Restrictions

Georgia explicitly prohibits illegal immigrants from paying in-state tuition rates at state schools. Also, a state law strips funding from any state colleges positioned as "sanctuary campuses" for undocumented immigrants.

Voter ID Rules

Georgia is one of a small number of states with some of the most strict voter ID policies in effect. Georgia voters must present a photo ID at the voting booth in order to vote. If unable to provide one of the acceptable forms of photo ID, they can still vote using a provisional ballot but will have to provide a photo ID at the county registrar's office within three (3) days of the election.

Other Immigration Rules

Litigation over many of Georgia's immigration law's provisions is currently ongoing, and some aspects have already been blocked by court. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on Georgia law please contact local officials or an attorney specializing in immigration law.

Related Resources

• Georgia's Immigration Law: Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act of 2011

Get Legal Help with Georgia Immigration Laws

While immigration is largely under federal jurisdiction, Georgia also has laws that address immigration. It's a good idea to contact an immigration attorney to discuss any questions you may have about federal or Georgia immigration laws.