{"id":352834,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:49","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/immigration-laws-and-resources\/rhode-island-state-immigration-laws.html"},"modified":"2026-03-24T10:59:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T15:59:00","slug":"rhode-island-state-immigration-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-laws-and-resources\/rhode-island-state-immigration-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Rhode Island State Immigration Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Rhode Island State Immigration Laws<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/meagan-neil-esq\/\">Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last reviewed\n        <time>\n                            March 24, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>The federal government has agencies that handle matters related to immigration law enforcement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Immigration laws are primarily enforced by federal agencies. But states have their own rules that affect the everyday life of immigrants and the services they can access. These rules and regulations vary by state. States also have a significant say in how they enforce immigration laws.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>This article outlines immigration rules and policies in Rhode Island. Learn more about:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#Law\">Law enforcement and immigration in Rhode Island<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#E-Verify\">Rhode Island employment check and E-Verify requirements<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Driver\">Driver&#8217;s license and ID requirements<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Benefit\">Public benefit restrictions<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Education\">Educational benefits and in-state tuition<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Housing\">Housing ordinance and immigration<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Attorney\">How an immigration attorney can help<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Resources\">Related resources<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Immigration rules continue to evolve. Anyone facing an immigration issue in Rhode Island should speak with a local <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">immigration attorney<\/a> for up\u2011to\u2011date guidance.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Law\"><\/a>Law Enforcement and Immigration in Rhode Island<\/h2>\n<p>Federal agencies are the main authorities responsible for managing and enforcing U.S. immigration laws. The primary agencies involved are:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dhs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)<\/a> \u2014 The DHS safeguards the country from security threats. The department manages the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Enforcement of immigration laws<\/li>\n<li>Securing U.S. borders<\/li>\n<li>Coordinating emergency response<\/li>\n<li>Other matters related to immigration issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS<b>)<\/b><\/a>\u00a0\u2014 The USCIS oversees immigration to the United States. This includes the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Acquiring U.S. visas<\/li>\n<li>Processing U.S. citizenship<\/li>\n<li>Getting a lawful permanent residency or green card<\/li>\n<li>Application for asylum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ice.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)<\/a> \u2014 ICE enforces immigration laws by conducting investigations and detaining individuals who violate them. It also investigates those who illegally entered the country, overstayed their visas, or committed crimes in the U.S.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)<\/a> \u2014 The CBP is an agency under DHS. Its goal is to safeguard U.S. borders and prevent dangerous people and materials from entering the country. It also ensures legitimate trade and travel.<\/p>\n<p>Although the federal government is the main body that administers immigration laws, there are state agencies that play crucial roles in its enforcement. These shared responsibilities are highlighted in the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ice.gov\/identify-and-arrest\/criminal-apprehension-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Criminal Apprehension Program (CAP)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>With CAP, federal and local law enforcement authorities work together to arrest, identify, and remove non-U.S. citizens in the country. This applies in particular to those who pose a threat to communities and to criminals at large.<\/p>\n<p>Rhode Island state agencies cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. But some jurisdictions, <a href=\"https:\/\/rhodeislandcurrent.com\/2025\/11\/06\/providence-city-council-finalizes-limits-on-police-cooperation-with-ice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">including Providence<\/a>, have limited local law enforcement&#8217;s collaboration with ICE. It varies by city or county, but many local police departments will not hold individuals solely on federal immigration detainers without a warrant.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"E-Verify\"><\/a>Rhode Island Employment Check and E-Verify Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>The federal government created an online\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.e-verify.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">system called E-Verify<\/a>. This system helps employees check the employment eligibility of newly hired employees. Various states require employers to use E-Verify in their hiring process. This is particularly true for contractors working with the government. But in Rhode Island, using E-Verify is voluntary.<\/p>\n<p>In March 2008, then-Governor Donald Carcieri signed an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.littler.com\/rhode-island-issues-e-verify-regulations-and-begins-enforcement\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">executive order<\/a>\u00a0requiring agencies and contractors within the state to use E-Verify. But Governor Lincoln Chafee revoked the mandate in 2011. This move was to support comprehensive dialogue with immigrant communities.<\/p>\n<p>Now, E-Verify remains voluntary for employers rather than a mandate.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Driver\"><\/a>Driver&#8217;s License and ID Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>Immigrants living in Rhode Island illegally cannot get state identification cards or driver&#8217;s licenses.\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px;padding: 0px\">But<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/what-is-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Deferred<\/a><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/what-is-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-.html\">\u00a0Action for Childhood Arrivals <\/a>(DACA)\u00a0recipients can get state IDs and driver&#8217;s licenses.<\/p>\n<p>The Rhode Island\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dmv.ri.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Division of Motor Vehicles<\/a> may require driver&#8217;s license applicants to show proof of identification. These forms of identification may include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Valid and unexpired passport<\/li>\n<li>Certified copy of a birth certificate<\/li>\n<li>Permanent resident card<\/li>\n<li>Employment authorization document (EAD)<\/li>\n<li>Valid and unexpired foreign passport<\/li>\n<li>Social Security Administration statement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For a more detailed list,\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px;padding: 0px\">visit the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dmv.ri.gov\/licenses-permits-ids\/drivers-licenses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DMV&#8217;s<\/a><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dmv.ri.gov\/licenses-permits-ids\/drivers-licenses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0official website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Benefit\"><\/a>Public Benefit Restrictions<\/h2>\n<p>Immigrants without proper documentation can&#8217;t get most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/child-support\/state-public-assistance-welfare-information.html\">public benefits and social services<\/a>. But they can use services that are essential for their health care and emergency services to protect their life and safety. Below are some of the services that immigrants in Rhode Island can use:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Child Care Development Fund<\/li>\n<li>Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)<\/li>\n<li>Emergency Medicaid<\/li>\n<li>Emergency shelter<\/li>\n<li>Disaster relief<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The public benefits migrants and immigrants could qualify for may change depending on their immigration status. This information is discussed in more detail in this <a href=\"https:\/\/niwaplibrary.wcl.american.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/RI-Public-Benefits-Screening-Chart-9.5.22.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">chart compiled by American University<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Education\"><\/a>Educational Benefits and In-State Tuition<\/h2>\n<p>Rhode Island amended its Residency Policy on September 26, 2011. This amendment allowed eligible immigrants and DACA recipients to access in-state tuition.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/webserver.rilin.state.ri.us\/BillText\/BillText21\/HouseText21\/H5238.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rhode Island Student Access Act<\/a> also extended access to in-state tuition regardless of immigration status. Students must still meet the following criteria to qualify for in-state tuition:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>The student must have attended a high school in Rhode Island for three or more years.<\/li>\n<li>The student must have continuously lived in Rhode Island during those years.<\/li>\n<li>The student must have graduated from a high school in Rhode Island or received an equivalent diploma.<\/li>\n<li>The student must have filed an affidavit stating that they applied for lawful immigration status or will do so when eligible.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>But refugees in Rhode Island can only access these adult education benefits once they meet the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>12-month residency rule<\/li>\n<li>Permanent resident status<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"Housing\"><\/a>Housing Ordinance and Immigration<\/h2>\n<p>Rhode Island follows the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/fair-housing-federal-laws.html\">Fair Housing Act<\/a>. This act prevented discrimination in housing transactions based on:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Race<\/li>\n<li>Religion<\/li>\n<li>National origin<\/li>\n<li>Disability<\/li>\n<li>Sex<\/li>\n<li>Gender identity<\/li>\n<li>Familial status.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Rhode Island\u00a0fair housing law further extends this list to include the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Age<\/li>\n<li>Sexual orientation<\/li>\n<li>Marital status<\/li>\n<li>Veteran status<\/li>\n<li>Domestic violence victims<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"Attorney\"><\/a>Get Legal Advice from an Immigration Attorney<\/h2>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Dealing with immigration on your own is very difficult and stressful. Understanding federal and state laws can be overwhelming, and it is natural to feel frustrated and lost in the process. Rules and regulations vary by state and affect enforcement and implementation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Fortunately, legal help is available for immigration issues. An experienced immigration lawyer can support you with several immigration processes, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Pursuing U.S. citizenship through <a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/naturalization.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">naturalization<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Applying for a visa or work permit<\/li>\n<li>Applying for lawful permanent resident status or a <a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/green-card.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">green card<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Appearing in immigration court<\/li>\n<li>Advocating for a loved one who has been detained<\/li>\n<li>Facing a deportation or removal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">FindLaw&#8217;s <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of immigration attorneys<\/a> can get you started. Because state immigration laws are relevant, your attorney should be licensed in Rhode Island. Enter your city or ZIP code 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Do not be afraid to talk to an immigration lawyer\u2014<a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/do-you-need-a-lawyer\/what-is-the-attorney-client-privilege.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney-client privilege<\/a> prohibits them from sharing information about your immigration status. Their role is to help you, not act as an enforcement agent.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Resources\"><\/a>Immigration in Rhode Island: Related Resources<\/h2>\n<p>Various organizations and legal resources offer legal services and legal assistance to migrants in Rhode Island:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.immigrantcoalitionri.org\/en\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigrant Coalition of Rhode Island<\/a> \u2014 This association of organizations offers widespread advocacy to immigrant communities.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.riaclu.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island<\/a> \u2014 This nonprofit organization is dedicated to protecting and upholding the freedoms and civil rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ariseducation.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians for Education (RISE)<\/a> \u2014 This organization advocates for education and career development of Southeast Asian students living in Rhode Island.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nilc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Immigration Law Center<\/a> \u2014 This organization advances the rights of low-income immigrants.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.riaclu.org\/en\/know-your-rights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Know Your Rights<\/a>\u00a0\u2014 This pamphlet offers information about various civil liberties issues. This is helpful for anyone who would like to learn more about their rights and responsibilities under the U.S. Constitution.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FindLaw Immigration Law Resources<\/a> \u2014 FindLaw offers free legal resources on various immigration law topics. Find informative and easy-to-understand articles on green card applications, naturalization, and more.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some people can get a green card or complete immigration forms without hiring legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex immigration cases (such as having a criminal history or past immigration violations) may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help you help you navigate federal and state immigration laws\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>The immigration process can be stressful and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\">\u00a0<a title=\"Immigration Law Attorney Directory\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL29\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/asylum-process.html\">\n                        Asylum Process\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html\">\n                        Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal.html\">\n                        Deportation and Removal\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/international-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw covers immigration laws in Rhode Island. Learn how rules for public benefits, employment, housing, and driver\u2019s licenses apply to immigrants, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":352785,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2733],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-352834","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-immigration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352834","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=352834"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352834\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":394404,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352834\/revisions\/394404"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352785"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=352834"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=352834"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=352834"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=352834"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=352834"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}