NYC’s Municipal ID Card Program Officially in Place

On Monday, January 12, New York City officially introduced the country’s largest municipal identification program, issuing ID cards to residents regardless of immigration status. This is a welcome measure for undocumented immigrants, who without government-issued ID cards, have found it difficult to obtain access to city services and institutions, or to carry out many routine activities such as opening a bank account, filling prescriptions, and renting an apartment. The ID card can also be used as a library card. 

Enrollment is free in 2015, but fees may be charged in the future. In addition, information will not be shared with other government agencies or third parties (except for verifying applicant eligibility or in response to a subpoena or warrant), allaying many immigrants’ fears that obtaining an ID card may alert the immigration service of their undocumented status. 

Known as “IDNYC,” the identification card is available to all NYC residents at least 14 years of age and who can prove identity and residency. Individuals can apply at several enrollment center locations throughout the five boroughs. 

Aside from the many benefits described above, the card will provide free membership to zoos and museums.

We applaud Mayor de Blasio and the City Council for undertaking this initiative. For more information on how to apply for an IDNYC, please see the application page here and documentation requirement page here. 

  
Best regards,
Rio, Tsui and All of Us at Guerrero Yee LLP

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The latest IDNYC update comes to us from our Immigration and Nationality Law Committee Chairs Rio Guerrero and Tsui Yee. To visit Rio and Tsui’s law firm site, dealing with immigration matters in all 50 states and in countries all over the world, click on the link above. Thank you, Rio and Tsui!