Illegal immigrants in the United States are eligible for various services, assistance, and benefits through a complex network of federal, state, and local programs, as well as taxpayer-funded providers. This report examines the types of support available to illegal immigrants and the implications for American taxpayers.
Border and Initial Processing
When migrants arrive at the U.S. border and do not evade Border Patrol agents, they are taken into custody, processed, and if not immediately removed, often released into the U.S. with a notice to appear at immigration court. This process can take years due to a significant backlog of nearly 3.6 million cases. During their custody, migrants receive shelter, meals, and essential medical care. If specialized or emergency care is required, they may be transported to independent providers, with costs reimbursed at Medicare rates.
Support from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Once released, many migrants receive assistance from NGOs, which are often funded by federal dollars. For example, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provided $640.9 million in FY 2024 to help NGOs and local governments offset the costs incurred by migrant arrivals. NGOs offer hotel rooms, travel arrangements, food, clothing, medical care, legal aid, and other essential services.
State and Local Level Assistance
Support for illegal immigrants varies by state and locality. Many sanctuary cities provide shelter and other services to migrants. For instance, Denver offers housing assistance, language instruction, and work-based learning opportunities. New York City has a pilot program providing pre-paid debit cards to migrant families for food and baby supplies. Additionally, New York State has extended Medicaid coverage to individuals aged 65 and older regardless of immigration status.
California allows illegal immigrants under 49 to receive free health insurance through Cal-Health, and similar programs exist in other states like Oregon and Washington, D.C. Some cities, like Chicago, also provide legal aid through taxpayer-funded programs.
Federal Level Benefits
While illegal immigrants typically cannot receive federal benefits, they are eligible for emergency medical treatment under Medicaid and some emergency nutrition programs. The Biden administration has also allowed illegal immigrants eligible under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to apply for Obamacare. Comprehensive immigration reform proposed by the Biden administration aimed to provide a path to citizenship for millions of illegal immigrants, which would grant them access to a broader range of benefits, though this proposal has faced significant opposition.
Conclusion
The range of services and benefits available to illegal immigrants in the U.S. has sparked debate, with conservatives arguing that such support acts as a pull factor for migrants and imposes significant costs on American taxpayers. This complex and evolving situation continues to shape the national discourse on immigration policy.