New Mexico Immigration Laws

New Mexico issues driver's licenses to all residents regardless of immigration status. Applicants must provide proof of identity and New Mexico residency. Licenses issued to those without verified SSN/immigration status are not REAL ID compliant but are valid for driving.

Since 2005, undocumented students who attended and graduated from a New Mexico high school are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. DACA recipients are also eligible.

The Opportunity Scholarship covers tuition costs for New Mexico undergraduates at public institutions pursuing certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees. Undocumented students who meet residency requirements are eligible.

New Mexico has no statewide E-Verify requirement. Employers are not required to use the federal E-Verify system beyond standard federal I-9 obligations.

While New Mexico has no statewide sanctuary law, Albuquerque and Santa Fe have sanctuary ordinances that limit local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and provide workplace protections for undocumented employees.

New Mexico allows individuals to obtain professional and occupational licenses regardless of immigration status in most occupations.