Nebraska Immigration Laws

Governor Pillen's executive order mandates full cooperation between Nebraska state agencies and federal immigration authorities (ICE). Nebraska is not a sanctuary state and has no cities or counties with official sanctuary policies.

Every contract between a public employer and public contractor must contain a provision requiring the contractor to use a federal immigration verification system (E-Verify) to determine work eligibility of new employees performing services in Nebraska. Applies to state agencies, political subdivisions, and their contractors since October 2009. No statewide mandate for private employers as of February 2026, though legislation (LB 532) has been proposed.

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

Eligible undocumented students, including DACA recipients, may access in-state tuition at Nebraska public colleges and universities. Requirements: attended a Nebraska high school, graduated or obtained a GED in Nebraska, resided in Nebraska for at least 3 years before graduation, and signed an affidavit stating intent to apply for permanent residency when eligible. Note: LB 870 (2025) has been introduced to repeal this benefit for DACA students.

Undocumented immigrants are generally ineligible for state-funded public benefits in Nebraska. DACA recipients may access certain state benefits and professional/occupational licensing depending on specific program eligibility requirements.