Welcoming on Immigration
Illinois Immigration Policy 2026
Immigration laws, sanctuary status, E-Verify requirements, and how immigration shapes the political landscape in Illinois ahead of 2026.
14.3%
Immigrant Population
Welcoming
Immigration Stance
Not required
E-Verify
DL: No
Undoc. Drivers License
Key Immigration Policies
| Sanctuary Status | Yes — Illinois TRUST Act (2017) |
| E-Verify Requirement | Not required |
| Drivers License (Undocumented) | No |
| In-State Tuition (Undocumented) | Yes |
| Enforcement Approach | Sanctuary state; Chicago is a sanctuary city |
Overview
Illinois has significant immigrant communities in Chicago and its suburbs. The state extended drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants and has strong sanctuary policies. Illinois received over 50,000 migrants bused from Texas and Florida in 2022-2023, creating a humanitarian crisis.
2026 Political Impact
The influx of migrants bused to Chicago created a significant political challenge for Democrats. Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. Pritzker clashed over resources. Immigration has become a top issue even in blue Illinois.