Iowa Immigration Laws

Enacted in 2018, this law requires all local law enforcement agencies to comply with ICE detainer requests and cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Prohibits local sanctuary policies. Violations result in loss of all state funding. Local entities cannot restrict collecting or sharing immigration status information with federal authorities.

Governor Reynolds issued an executive order in October 2025 requiring state agencies to verify employment eligibility through E-Verify and to confirm immigration status before granting professional licenses. No statewide E-Verify mandate for private employers as of February 2026, though legislation is pending for the 2026 session.

Undocumented immigrants cannot obtain a driver's license or state ID in Iowa. DACA recipients can obtain driver's licenses with valid Employment Authorization Documents.

DACA recipients who meet Iowa residency requirements are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities under Iowa Board of Regents guidelines. Undocumented students without DACA may face higher tuition rates.

Undocumented immigrants are generally ineligible for state-funded public benefits. DACA recipients may access certain state benefits depending on specific program eligibility requirements.