The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or Link) helps individuals and families purchase groceries.
If you are an immigrant household, you may be trying to understand who is eligible for SNAP and whether participating in the program will impact future immigration status.
We want to make sure you have accurate information so you can make the decision that’s right for you and your family.
SNAP is the only nutrition program with a citizenship requirement. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for SNAP. Qualifying immigrants can enroll in SNAP if they meet income and work requirements and have a qualifying immigration status:
If your children are legal permanent residents or US citizens, you can enroll them in SNAP even if you are undocumented or don’t have a qualifying immigration status.
On your application, you will have to provide income information for everyone in the household to determine whether your family meets income requirements. But you only have to share a social security number and immigration status for household members you are requesting benefits for.
If you apply by phone or in person, you can request interpretation services. In some communities, there may be organizations who can answer questions or help with enrollment in your native language.
The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights maintains a list of organizations around the state that provide comprehensive public benefits assistance for those who face language and cultural barriers in accessing public benefits.
Under current law, SNAP enrollment does not affect your ability to remain in the United States, get or keep a green card or permanent resident status, or become a U.S. citizen. A few years ago, lawmakers talked about changing this, and they may try to change it in the future.
Talk to a trusted source for the latest information. You can get up-to-date information online from Protecting Immigrant Families Illinois or the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.
The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights also maintains a list of organizations around the state that provide comprehensive public benefits assistance for those who face language and cultural barriers in accessing public benefits.