7 Things Every Immigrant Should Know If Living in Florida – 2025

Florida is one of the states with the largest immigrant populations in the U.S. However, it’s also one of the most complex in terms of immigration laws and cooperation with federal immigration agencies. If you live here and don’t have legal status or are in the process of adjusting your status, this information can help protect you and guide you toward safer decisions for you and your family.

Here are 7 key things you should know about immigration in Florida:

1. Florida Cooperates with ICE
   Many counties and cities in Florida have agreements with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). This means that if you are stopped for a minor offense—like driving without a license, a broken taillight, no insurance, or an expired tag—you could end up in deportation proceedings. When you’re stopped by police, your information may be automatically shared with ICE, which can trigger a deportation case, even if the offense is minor or administrative.

2. No Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants
   Unlike other states, Florida does not allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license. Driving without a license can be very risky, and if you’re pulled over, you could be reported to ICE.

3. New Law SB1718: Be Very Careful!
   In 2023, Florida passed a state law that criminalizes transporting undocumented individuals if you know they don’t have legal status. This has especially affected mixed-status families and people who travel for work.

The law also requires some hospitals to ask about your immigration status before providing care.

4. Florida Limits College Access for Undocumented Students
   While some states allow undocumented students to attend public universities at in-state tuition rates, Florida imposes strict limitations:

• Undocumented students do not qualify for state or federal financial aid.

• To qualify for in-state tuition, they must meet very specific criteria, like attending a Florida high school for at least three years.

• Many end up paying three to four times more for the same education as legal residents.

This severely limits educational and professional opportunities for young immigrants, even if they’ve lived in Florida their entire lives.

5. Beware of “Notario” Scams
   Many people without a license to practice law pretend to be “consultants” or “notarios” and end up harming immigration cases. Always consult a certified immigration attorney.

6. Limited Access to Public Benefits
   Florida does not offer many state benefits to undocumented immigrants, unlike states such as California or New York. However, you can still access emergency medical care, free vaccinations, and assistance in cases of violence or human trafficking.

7. Get Legal Help as Soon as Possible
   In Florida, immigration judges tend to be stricter. If you’re detained or receive a Notice to Appear, don’t wait until the last minute to contact a lawyer. The more time you have to prepare your case, the better your chances of success.

Serving Immigrants Is Here for You
If you live in Florida and are looking to protect your immigration future or begin the path to legal status, Serving Immigrants is ready to help.
We have three strategically located offices in Orlando, Miami, and Clewiston, serving immigrants across the state.
With over 20 years of experience in immigration law, we understand better than anyone the challenges immigrant families face in Florida.

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step with confidence.
At Serving Immigrants, your peace of mind and your future are our priority. We are here to serve you.