Undocumented Immigrant Rights and Privileges in Michigan

What State-Level Rights Do Undocumented Immigrants Have in Michigan?

In Michigan, undocumented immigrants have the right to access public education, obtain driver’s licenses, and receive emergency medical care. They also have the right to go to the police if they are victims of a crime. Additionally, they may be eligible for some state services, such as Medicaid coverage for pregnant women and children under the age of 21.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Obtain A Driver’S License Or State Id in Michigan?

No, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to obtain a driver’s license or state ID in Michigan. The Michigan Department of State requires customers to provide proof of legal presence in the United States before they can receive their driver’s license or state ID.

Are Undocumented Students Eligible For In-State Tuition Rates At State Colleges And Universities in Michigan?

No, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury, undocumented students are not eligible for in-state tuition rates at state colleges and universities in Michigan.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Access Emergency Healthcare Services in Michigan?

Yes, undocumented immigrants are eligible to access emergency healthcare services in Michigan. However, they may not be eligible for financial assistance for medical services such as Medicaid or Medicare. Additionally, they may not be eligible for discounts or other reduced costs, such as those provided to insured patients.

Are Undocumented Immigrants Eligible For Public Education, Including K-12 Schools, in Michigan?

Yes, all children in Michigan are eligible for a public education, including K-12 schools, regardless of their immigration status. The Michigan Department of Education states that “no student will be denied enrollment based on their citizenship or immigration status.” State law also requires that school districts provide the same educational opportunities to all students, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.

Do Undocumented Immigrants Have The Right To Work in Michigan?

No. Under Michigan state law, employers are not allowed to hire undocumented immigrants. Employers can face civil and criminal penalties for knowingly hiring an undocumented immigrant.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Access Public Transportation Services in Michigan?

Yes, undocumented immigrants can access public transportation services in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has issued a policy statement that allows undocumented immigrants to access public transportation services. According to the policy statement, undocumented immigrants are eligible to use public transportation services located within the state, including buses, trains, and other modes of mass transportation. This includes services provided by the Detroit Department of Transportation and the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation.

Are There Any State-Funded Social Services Or Assistance Programs Available To Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

Yes. Michigan provides some social services and assistance programs to undocumented immigrants. These include Medicaid, Refugee Cash Assistance, the Emergency Solutions Grant Program, and the MI Bridges program, which provides access to health care services, employment services, food assistance, and other supports. Additionally, Michigan offers some protections to undocumented immigrants, including driver’s license eligibility and access to in-state tuition for college.

What Protections Are In Place To Prevent Discrimination And Harassment Of Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?



Under Michigan law, undocumented immigrants are protected from discrimination and harassment in the areas of housing, employment, and public accommodation. Undocumented immigrants have the right to report any discrimination and pay any wages owed to them.

In terms of housing, the Michigan Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on immigration status or national origin. This means that landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone solely because they are an undocumented immigrant.

In terms of employment, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on national origin, including immigration status. This means that employers cannot refuse to hire an individual solely based on their immigration status.

In terms of public accommodation, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits businesses from discriminating against customers or employees based on their national origin. This means that businesses cannot deny service to an individual solely because they are an undocumented immigrant.

Additionally, all residents, regardless of their immigration status, are entitled to equal medical care under the Michigan Constitution and state law.

Finally, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) investigates complaints of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, height, weight, national origin, age and familial status. This includes complaints related to immigration status or national origin. The MDCR is also available to advise individuals who think they may have been the victim of discrimination or harassment.

Do State Laws Provide Any Pathways To Legal Status Or Residency For Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

No. There are no state laws in Michigan that provide pathways to legal status or residency for undocumented immigrants. Michigan state laws do not provide any form of legal status or residency for undocumented immigrants. However, the state does provide certain services and programs to help undocumented immigrants in the state, such as health care, language and job skills training, and education.

Are Undocumented Immigrants Eligible For Any State-Level Financial Aid Or Scholarships For Higher Education in Michigan?

No, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for state-level financial aid or scholarships for higher education in Michigan. However, there are a few private scholarships available to undocumented students, and some universities offer institutional aid programs. Additionally, some of the universities provide special support and resources for undocumented students.

What Are The Voting Rights And Political Participation Options For Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants in Michigan do not have the right to vote in any elections or to participate in any political activities. In addition, they are not allowed to work for a political party or candidate, contribute to or accept campaign contributions, or engage in any lobbying or other political activities.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Access Legal Representation Or Assistance For Immigration Matters in Michigan?

Yes, undocumented immigrants can access legal representation or assistance for immigration matters in Michigan. There are a variety of organizations that provide legal representation and assistance to immigrants, such as the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC), the Michigan Immigrant Rights Partnership (MIRP), and the Michigan Alliance for Immigrants’ Rights (MAIR). These organizations provide free or low-cost legal assistance to immigrants in need, and they can help those seeking to adjust their immigration status, obtain work authorization, apply for visas, and more.

Are There Any Specific State Laws Or Policies Addressing The Detention And Deportation Of Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

Yes, there are several. The Michigan Department of Civil Rights enforces the Michigan Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on national origin or immigration status. The state also prohibits local governments from enacting laws that would have the effect of making immigration status a determining factor in a decision related to a person’s rights, privileges, or immunities. Local law enforcement agencies are prohibited from inquiring into an individual’s immigration status or enforcing federal immigration laws. The state also prohibits the use of state funds to support the detention, deportation, or removal of undocumented immigrants. The Michigan State Legislature has also considered several bills that would prohibit the use of state funds for certain detention and deportation activities.

Do State-Level Executive Orders Or Policies Protect The Rights Of Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

No, state-level executive orders or policies do not protect the rights of undocumented immigrants in Michigan. Michigan does not have any state-level laws specifically related to immigration or the rights of undocumented immigrants. However, several cities in Michigan, including Detroit, Ann Arbor, and East Lansing, have adopted policies that protect the rights of undocumented immigrants.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Purchase Or Rent Property, Such As Homes Or Apartments, in Michigan?

No, undocumented immigrants are not legally allowed to purchase or rent property in Michigan, as they do not have the legal right to do so. Additionally, they may not be able to qualify for a mortgage, as lenders typically require proof of legal status and income in order to qualify for a loan.

What Is The Process For Obtaining A Business License Or Starting A Business As An Undocumented Immigrant in Michigan?

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for business licenses in the state of Michigan. If an undocumented immigrant is interested in starting a business in the state, they must first obtain legal status in order to do so. This process involves applying for a visa, green card, or other form of legal status and having that status approved by the U.S. government. Once the individual has obtained legal status, they may then apply for a business license by following the appropriate procedures in the state of Michigan.

Are There Any Restrictions On Travel Within The State Or To Other States For Undocumented Immigrants in Michigan?

Yes, undocumented immigrants in Michigan will encounter travel restrictions. According to Michigan state law, undocumented immigrants are not allowed to obtain a driver’s license or other forms of state-issued identification. Without such identification, it can be difficult to get through an airport or border crossing. Additionally, the State of Michigan does not allow undocumented immigrants to receive in-state tuition at public universities, which can make traveling to other states for educational purposes difficult.

Do State-Level Laws Provide Any Protection For Undocumented Immigrant Workers From Exploitation Or Unfair Labor Practices in Michigan?

Yes, state-level laws in Michigan provide some protection for undocumented immigrant workers from exploitation and unfair labor practices. Michigan prohibits employers from taking adverse action against an employee or applicant because of their immigration status. Employers are also prohibited from using E-Verify without following the proper protocol and are required to pay all employees the same wage regardless of their immigration status. Additionally, employers are prohibited from requiring an employee to sign a contract that contains a provision preventing them from taking action against their employer in the event of labor violations. Finally, state labor laws protect undocumented workers by allowing them to file complaints with the Wage and Hour Division of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs if they believe they have been wronged by their employer.

Where Can Undocumented Immigrants Find Resources And Support To Navigate Their State Rights And Privileges in Michigan?

In Michigan, there are a number of organizations and resources available to provide support and information to undocumented immigrants. The Mexican Consulate in Detroit is one such resource, offering informational sessions, legal advice, and assistance with acquiring Mexican citizenship documents. The Michigan Immigrants Rights Center (MIRC) is another great resource. MIRC provides legal services, advocacy, and education for immigrant communities across the state. Additionally, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Michigan offers a variety of resources outlining rights and privileges for immigrants in the state, as well as legal information and referrals.