7 Realities Every Immigrant Should Know if Living in California in 2025

California has long been home to millions of immigrants—from the agricultural fields of the Central Valley to the vibrant Latino communities of Los Angeles and San Diego. While it’s one of the most inclusive states in the country, 2025 has brought a much more intense immigration climate, with massive ICE operations, raids, and an increase in detentions nationwide.

If you’re an immigrant living in California—documented or not—you need to be more prepared than ever. These are 7 things you must know today:

1. California Is Still a Sanctuary State… But ICE Is More Active Than Ever
   California maintains sanctuary laws that limit local police collaboration with federal agencies like ICE. However, that doesn’t stop ICE from acting independently, which is exactly what’s happening now:

• ICE has ramped up operations in public spaces, workplaces, and even homes.
• Raids have become more frequent, especially in immigrant-heavy neighborhoods.
• The mass judicial warrants issued in 2024 remain active in 2025, allowing for fast-tracked arrests.

 Don’t let your guard down—state protections don’t block federal actions.

2. You Have the Right to Medical Care, Even Without Legal Status
   Despite the hostile political environment, California has expanded access to healthcare:

• Medi-Cal now covers all low-income residents, including those over 26 without legal status.
• Access California also provides medical care for those who don’t qualify elsewhere.
   

Health is a right. If you’re sick, get help—hospitals do not report to ICE.

3. Young Immigrants Still Have Access to Education and Scholarships
   Thanks to the California Dream Act, undocumented youth can still:

• Attend public universities.
• Apply for state financial aid.
• Join academic and legal support programs.

 In uncertain times, investing in your education is one way to protect your future.

4. You Can Get Official ID Without Legal Status
   California continues to issue:

• Driver’s licenses (AB 60) for undocumented individuals.
• DMV ID cards that allow you to open bank accounts, use public transportation, and more.
   

Having ID can prevent you from being detained simply for failing to identify yourself.

5. Immigration Courts Are More Overwhelmed and Less Forgiving
   Immigration judges in California face a surge of fast-tracked cases due to new federal priorities:

• Hearings are being scheduled with very little notice.
• Asylum or cancellation of removal petitions face more procedural hurdles.
• ICE check-ins have increasingly become detention traps.
  Having an experienced immigration attorney is more crucial than ever.

6. ICE Is Arresting People in Unexpected Places
   Even in a protective state like California, ICE raids and arrests have surged in 2025:

• Arrests have been reported at courthouses, bus stops, schools, and tax offices.
• ICE often acts without prior judicial warrants.

Have a legal and family safety plan in place: emergency contacts, attorney, and instructions for your children.

7. Having Your Documents in Order Can Save You from Deportation
   

Many immigrants don’t realize they qualify for relief options like:

• Asylum
• VAWA
• U or T Visa
• Adjustment of status or cancellation of removal

Don’t wait. Authorities are moving faster—contact Serving Immigrants to learn about your options.
Also, always carry a copy of your ID, proof of any open legal cases, and your attorney’s contact information.

At Serving Immigrants, We Stand With You
We know this moment is difficult. At Serving Immigrants, we’ve spent over 20 years defending immigrants’ rights across the U.S.—especially in California.

We help you:

• File for immigration relief.
• Defend against deportation.
• Create legal and family emergency plans.

Schedule your consultation today.
Don’t face this immigration crisis alone. We’re here to serve you.
 

Direct WhatsApp contact with our team