Wyoming State Immigration Laws

States have their own rules that determine what services and benefits immigrants can access and how they engage with state systems. States also have a significant say in how they enforce immigration laws. These rules and regulations vary by state. 

Migrants should be aware of the political climate of undocumented persons in any state. Unlike liberal states like Colorado and New York, Wyoming’s policies are less hospitable to migrants.

This article outlines immigration rules and policies in the state of Wyoming. Immigration laws are constantly evolving and subject to change. If you’re facing an immigration issue in Wyoming, contact a local immigration attorney for up‑to‑date guidance.

History of Legal Tensions Between Wyoming and the Federal Government

In January 2023, Wyoming became one of the 20 states that sued the Biden administration over its new immigration policies. Other states included Florida, Kansas, and Missouri. At issue in the lawsuit was how the Biden administration opened channels facilitating immigration to the United States once Title 42 expired in May 2023. These channels include several ways for people from Haiti, Colombia, Venezuela, and elsewhere to immigrate legally to the United States.

The lawsuit has since concluded or been superseded by later litigation.

Law Enforcement and Immigration in Wyoming

Under the “Criminal Apprehension Program,” a federal program, the names of convicts are entered into a database that checks immigration status. The information in this database is shared with:

• The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Migrants should know how the government collects information and how it is shared between local and federal agencies. Migrants should also know how local and federal authorities cooperate in immigration enforcement. While federal agencies primarily enforce immigration laws, local law enforcement may work with federal agencies to carry out certain laws and policies.

Employment and Immigration

Refer to federal employment eligibility verification rules. It’s also important to see the requirements for Form I-9.

Wyoming E-Verify Requirements

Wyoming has no rule requiring public or private employers to use E-Verify to confirm that employees or candidates are eligible to work in the U.S. Employers may still choose to use this tool.

Driver’s License and ID Requirements

To get a driver’s license or state-issued ID in Wyoming, immigrants must present the following documents:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of legal presence
• Proof of Social Security number
• Two recent documents proving Wyoming residency (like a utility bill, rental lease, or bank statement)
• Proof of name change, if applicable

Public Benefits Restrictions

Under federal law, undocumented immigrants can’t get most public benefits. But they can get emergency services, health care, and other programs deemed “necessary to protect life and safety.”

Education and Tuition Costs

Wyoming has no state policy on in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants. Schools in the state may make their own policies on this type of benefit. 

This applies to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. Enacted in 2012 under the Obama administration, DACA protects eligible young adults from deportation after they came to the United States as children. It provides these young adults with work authorization for limited periods. Those periods of work authorization are renewable.

Schools may decide on tuition benefits for U visa holders. Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), abuse and domestic violence victims are eligible for a U visa. This type of visa provides a path to citizenship for immigrants who are victims of certain crimes, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. U visas are also available to victims’ family members.

Voting ID Rules

Wyoming has no state-specific voter ID rule.

Housing Ordinances and Immigration

There are no special housing ordinances for immigrants in Wyoming. But property owners and landlords must comply with federal fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on religion, race, national origin, ancestry, or other protected characteristics.

Immigration in Wyoming: Related Resources

• Know Your Rights — This guide will help you protect yourself and your family during immigration raids.
• USCIS Office in Casper — Find contact information for the USCIS immigration office in Casper, Wyoming.
• Legal Aid of Wyoming — This nonprofit organization provides free or low-cost legal assistance to qualifying people, including migrants. Attorneys affiliated with Legal Aid of Wyoming provide legal representation pro bono. This means they provide legal services at no charge.
• Wyoming State Bar Association — If you need referrals for attorneys, this organization can provide them for free.

If You’re Facing an Immigration Issue, Legal Help Is Available

Meeting with an immigration lawyer can help you understand your options and how best to protect your rights. Enlisting legal help is key for several aspects of the immigration process, including:

• Undergoing the naturalization process
• Facing a potential deportation or removal
• Pursuing U.S. citizenship
• Trying to get a green card for lawful permanent resident status
• Advocating for a family member who has been detained
• Struggling with regular communications with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Whatever situation you are facing, immigration attorneys can help. Their advocacy and expertise can help you overcome any immigration issues you face. 

FindLaw’s directory of immigration attorneys can get you started. Because state immigration laws are relevant, your attorney should be licensed in Wyoming. Enter your city or ZIP code, whether you’re in Laramie or elsewhere in the state, for a list of qualified legal professionals in your area. Your search results will also show important details about prospective lawyers, including ratings and whether they offer free consultations.

Do not be afraid to talk to an immigration lawyer—attorney-client privilege prohibits them from sharing information about your immigration status. Their role is to help you, not act as an enforcement agent.