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South Carolina State Immigration Laws

Welcome to FindLaw's coverage of existing South Carolina legislation and rules related to individuals' immigration status. Below you will find information on what, if any, rules South Carolina 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.

Law Enforcement and Immigration in South Carolina

State and local police in South Carolina are directed to enforce federal immigration laws.

As part of the 287(g) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ACCESS Program, various police districts cooperate directly with federal authorities in the enforcement of immigration law.

Employment Checks

The state's Dept. of Labor is directed to notify U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials about any suspected employment of undocumented immigrants by private employers.

Also, refer to federal employment eligibility verification rules and the requirements for Form I-9.

South Carolina E-Verify Requirements

E-Verify use is mandatory for all public and private employers.

Driver's License/ID Requirements

Must provide a valid Social Security Number to obtain a state driver's license or official ID.

Public Benefits Restrictions

N/A

Education Restrictions

Only U.S. citizens and those with legal residence status (student visa holders, for example) may attend public universities or apply for state-funded scholarships.

Voting ID Rules

Valid and current photo identification required to vote. Examples include a South Carolina driver's license, passport, U.S. military ID with photo and South Carolina voter registration card with a photo.

Housing Ordinances and Immigration

N/A

Other Immigration Rules

Undocumented immigrants are ineligible for non-emergency medical care at state-funded medical clinics and hospitals.

Related Resources

  • Know Your Rights - Guide to protecting yourself and your family during immigration raids (PDF, CASA of Maryland and other organizations).
  • Immigrant Worker Compliance - Resources and guidelines pertaining to the employment of immigrants in South Carolina (S.C. Dept. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation).
  • Immigration to South Carolina - Resources for immigrants to South Carolina (U.S. Immigration Support).

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Next Steps

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