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Sanctuary City Laws in NYC

Last updated January 6, 2025

New York values the lives of all New Yorkers, regardless of their immigration status, we want you to feel safe living here.

What does “Sanctuary City” mean?

  • New York City is a “sanctuary city” when it comes to immigration.
  • New York City’s sanctuary city laws impose certain limitations on the City’s ability to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
  • New York City’s sanctuary laws do not stop deportation from happening in New York City.

MOIA’s Sanctuary City Laws in NYC Booklet

Our sanctuary laws prioritize public safety, due process, and trust over immigration enforcement. Download our Sanctuary City Laws in NYC booklet in multiple languages to learn more.

Visit the Know Your Rights page to learn about Federal Immigration Enforcement

Sanctuary City Laws in NYC booklet cover
 

Get Legal Help

All immigrant New Yorkers can access free and confidential immigration legal help in their preferred language.
The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) provides the following information and services to support immigrant New Yorkers navigate the U.S. immigration system and build their lives and futures in New York.

A phone with a speech bubble and question mark to indicate someone is asking a question over the phone.
 
 

You can call the City-funded, free, and safe MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365, between 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday or call 311 and say, "Immigration Legal.”

MOIA Legal Support Centers

The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs has Legal Support Centers in immigrant neighborhoods that offers New Yorkers free, safe immigration legal help. These centers are housed in community sites, public health facilities, public schools, and libraries. Services are provided in your language. Your immigration status does not matter.
Visit our webpage on MOIA Legal Support Centers to learn more about legal services.