Iowa Immigration Laws 2025 – All You Need to Know

Immigration law is a highly debated legal issue, and Iowa’s immigration laws continue to evolve in 2025. It is estimated that by mid-year, Iowa will be on a fast track to expand its role in immigration enforcement. Whether you are a potential new immigrant, have lived in Iowa for a long time, or are simply curious to learn more about the laws, it is important to understand Iowa’s legal policies.

Immigration: Defining the Terms

First, it is important to clarify how U.S. immigration law uses certain terms. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA):

• “U.S. citizens” are individuals who have acquired citizenship either by birth or through naturalization. All U.S. citizens are also considered U.S. nationals.
• “Aliens” are individuals who are not U.S. citizens or nationals.
• “Immigrants” refer to a subset of aliens who are lawfully admitted for permanent residence.
• “Nonimmigrants” are aliens that are admitted to the U.S. temporarily and for a specific purpose, such as travel, education, or employment.

Why Immigrants Come to Iowa

Immigrants come to Iowa for many reasons, such as the:

• Family values and family-based lifestyle
• Jobs in food processing, healthcare, and agriculture
• Education opportunities
• Pleasant way of life enjoyed in the Midwest
• Slower pace of life

Recent Changes to Iowa Immigration Law

Many changes have been made to Iowa immigration enforcement in 2025. Some of the major changes include:

• State-level enforcement changes. Recent developments have made it so that state and local law enforcement will cooperate more closely with federal immigration agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
• Expanded employment verification. Certain industries will be using e-Verify to make sure that employers are hiring authorized workers.
• Sanctuary policy restrictions. Many cities and counties in Iowa are now restricted from using sanctuary policies to limit communication.
• A temporary block on SF 2340. The law was modeled after a Texas statute and empowered local law enforcement to charge individuals who had been denied admission, potentially escalating into felony charges for non-compliance. The law was temporarily blocked weeks later. This law conflicts with federal law and could lead to serious consequences.

The law establishes new criminal penalties for anyone in Iowa, including children, who has returned to the U.S. after deportation, even if they currently have legal authorization to be in the country. As of mid-2025, SF 2340 has remained legally blocked, but the state continues to challenge it in federal court.

What 2025 May Bring:

From legislative movement to local enforcement choices, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of many changes and alterations to immigration law. Here are some potential changes we could see:

• Legislative movement. House Bill 285 and the ICE partnership mandates may pass. If so, this will change the responsibilities of local law enforcement.
• Local enforcement choices. Counties will have the opportunity to challenge state demands. Some may push back, while others may comply.
• Federal force. The Laken Riley Act and expansive removal priorities may worsen deportation pressure, while DHS reversals will affect refugee groups.

Why Consulting with an Immigration Lawyer Is Important

Immigrants living in Iowa are affected by employment regulations and access to services. If you are a non-citizen or are facing concerns about immigration status, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney now more than ever.

An experienced attorney can help you navigate complex paperwork, avoid legal pitfalls, and advocate for your rights throughout each stage of the process.

Iowa’s Immigration Population

There are many immigrants living in Iowa. According to the American Immigration Council, three-fourths of the immigrants living in Iowa are proficient in English. About 5.8 percent of Iowa’s population is foreign-born, and 3.0 percent of its U.S.-born residents live with at least one immigrant parent.

The site continues to state that immigrants make up 7.4 percent of Iowa’s labor force. Immigrants in Iowa support the state in many ways. According to the American Immigration Council, they make up 7.7 percent of entrepreneurs, 11.1 percent of STEM workers, and 13.4 percent of manufacturing workers in the state. These immigrants are a vital part of the community in Iowa.

FAQ

Is Iowa Immigration Friendly?

Iowa remains immigration friendly—though with a few caveats. Iowa is a state that depends on its immigrant workers for many industries, but is also known as one of the stricter states in terms of immigration law. According to the Pataki Center, Iowa ranks with Florida and Texas in having very aggressive and comprehensive anti-immigrant laws that force local authorities to engage in deportations of its out-of-state residents.

What Is the New Immigration Law in Iowa?

In 2025, Iowa introduced several laws that allow officials to detain individuals who may be suspected of being in the country illegally. According to the American Immigration Council, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit recently upheld a temporary block on SF 2340. The law was passed during the 2024 Iowa legislative session and made illegal immigration a state-level crime.

Why Do Immigrants Come to Iowa?

Immigrants are a vital part of Iowa’s communities and workforce. According to Common Good Iowa, 1 in 4 Iowa physicians are immigrants, 1 in 5 maids and housekeepers are immigrants, and more than half of all butchers and meat processors are immigrants. Many immigrants are drawn to Iowa’s Midwestern family values and family-driven culture in addition to its plentiful opportunities in the workforce.

What Is the 7-Year Rule for Immigrants?

The 7-year rule is not specific or unique to immigrants in Iowa, but refers to all immigrants who have been in the country for seven years. Also known as the Cancellation of Removal, this rule offers relief from deportation. It requires continuous presence in the country for seven years, no crimes or criminal convictions, and good moral character.

Consult an Immigration Attorney at The Lawyers

If you are an immigrant looking for information about your rights, an immigration attorney from The Lawyers is eager to review your case with you. Contact us today to get started.