If you’ve been wondering whether Chicago is a sanctuary city in 2025, or if you're seeking information about what sanctuary city status means, we’re here to offer support. With all the changes in immigration laws, political headlines, and mixed messages out there, many community members are feeling confused and anxious. The good news is that Chicago is still a sanctuary city, but what does being a sanctuary city actually mean? And how does it affect your day-to-day life if you or someone in your family is undocumented or part of the immigrant community? In this post, Ibrahim Law Office breaks down the essentials of sanctuary city status and what makes these cities unique in 2025. A sanctuary city is a city that limits its cooperation with federal immigration authorities, particularly ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). Their goal is to protect immigrants, especially undocumented community members, from being detained or deported by federal agents. These cities want to create a safer environment where everyone, regardless of immigration status, can feel comfortable reporting crimes, seeking help, and accessing public services. By declaring themselves sanctuary cities, localities aren’t endorsing or encouraging undocumented immigration. Rather, they’re stating their policy of not using local law enforcement or resources to enforce federal immigration laws. For these cities, their sanctuary status is aimed at focusing on community safety and trust over community members’ immigration status. Chicago has a long history of prioritizing community safety over immigration enforcement. Back in 1985, Mayor Harold Washington signed an executive order stating that city workers couldn’t ask people about their immigration status. That was the first step. Years later, in 2006, the city made it official with an ordinance that basically turned that executive order into law. It became known as the Welcoming City Ordinance in 2012 when Chicago declared itself a sanctuary city. Then, in 2021, the city tightened the rules even more. Before that update, there were loopholes. For example, if someone had a criminal record, the city might still work with ICE. Now that the 2021 reforms, there are no exceptions: the City of Chicago doesn’t help ICE, period. Over the years, reforms that protect undocumented community members have grown in strength, demonstrating the city’s dedication to protecting all residents regardless of immigration status. City leaders have made it clear: Chicago welcomes immigrants and isn’t interested in acting like immigration police. Here’s a quick summary of the timeline: Fast forward to 2025, and Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city still stands strong. So, what does being a sanctuary city actually mean in day-to-day life? There are a few areas where it makes a real difference: One of the most important consequences of Chicago’s sanctuary city status is that local police and other city agencies are generally not allowed to enforce federal immigration laws. If you’re stopped by local police, they can’t ask about your immigration status, and they’re not supposed to share that information with federal authorities unless you’re involved in a serious criminal investigation. This protection from inquiries about status means that immigrants in Chicago are less likely to be caught up in ICE raids or deportation efforts just because of a traffic stop or minor issue. If ICE wants to detain someone, it must go through proper legal channels. The city doesn’t just hand people over, and city workers (like those in schools, public health offices, or shelters) don’t share info with ICE either. As a sanctuary city, Chicago also makes it clear that immigrants can access city services without worrying about immigration enforcement. Whether it’s public health, education, or other city programs, your immigration status won’t be used against you. For example, if you need to get a COVID test or send your child to school, your status won’t prevent you from getting help. This open access to city resources and programs is especially important for undocumented immigrants or those in limbo while waiting for their status to be resolved. They can live their lives without being afraid that accessing basic services will lead to deportation. There are some exceptions to Chicago’s sanctuary city policy. If a court-ordered federal warrant is issued, the city has to respect that. That’s the law. No city or state can stop a federal criminal warrant. Still, a warrant is not the same thing as ICE asking the city to "hold" someone or notify them about a release. Chicago denies those requests unless a judge signs off. While there are limitations to Chicago’s sanctuary city status, they’re the result of legal requirements and are not based on city-level policy decisions. Plus, circumstances in which these exceptions arise tend to be relatively rare. It’s not just the City of Chicago looking out for immigrants. The entire state of Illinois affirms and supports Chicago’s sanctuary city status with a state-wide law called the Trust Act. It passed in 2017 and applies to all police departments across the state, not just in Chicago. In accordance with this law, local police can’t stop or arrest someone just because of their immigration status. They can’t hold someone on ICE’s behalf unless they have a federal criminal warrant. Sound familiar? That’s because the Trust Act aligns quite nicely with Chicago’s city-wide policy. The state law adds another layer of safety for undocumented immigrants in Chicago and extends this protection to the broader Illinois population. In 2025, state leaders continue to support these policies, creating a stronger, more consistent shield for communities across Illinois. Now that we’ve covered the laws and policies, let’s consider practical matters. Here’s what you, your family, or your neighbors should know about living in Chicago as an immigrant in 2025: Local police won’t arrest you just because of your immigration status. They’re not allowed to ask, and they’re not working with ICE behind the scenes. If you’re pulled over or questioned by police, you have rights. And those rights include not answering questions about where you were born or how you came to the U.S. This doesn’t mean immunity from the law. But it does mean you won’t be targeted just because of your immigration status. Because of sanctuary city policies, you don’t need to fear contacting the police or courts if you’re involved in a situation that needs attention. Crime victims and witnesses can report criminal activity to the police without fear of being deported. You can also go to court if necessary, such as for family matters or disputes. This is a huge win for safety in the city. Immigrants don’t have to live in fear of calling 911 or asking for legal help because they think ICE will be notified. Need to go to a city clinic? Looking for shelter? Want to enroll your kids in school? You can feel safe accessing public services in a sanctuary city. No one’s going to check your papers. These services are made for people who live in the city, no matter their immigration status. You won’t be turned away from services just because you’re undocumented. Your status won’t get in the way of getting care, support, or help when you need it most. However, it’s important to note that this applies to city-run services. Federal programs might be different, especially when it comes to things like welfare or health insurance. Despite its sanctuary city status, ICE still operates in Chicago. The city can’t stop them. Federal agents have the power to make arrests, investigate cases, and take people into custody within sanctuary cities and across the country. Sanctuary city laws can’t keep federal officials from operating in any locality. They only establish a policy of non-cooperation between local agencies and ICE. So, while the city does its best to protect people, immigrants still need to be aware and cautious. That’s why it’s important to know your rights and be prepared. If ICE approaches you on the street, at home, or even at work, it can be a scary and confusing moment. You need to stay calm and do not attempt to flee. Remember: you have rights regardless of your legal status. Here’s what to keep in mind if ICE approaches you in a sanctuary city: Also, keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including the phone number of a Chicago immigration lawyer or legal clinic. Chicago is still a sanctuary city in 2025, a fact that provides significant relief to many undocumented community members. The city has laws in place that protect immigrants from local targeting, and the local police don’t work with ICE. These assurances mean city services are accessible to everyone, and undocumented immigrants don’t have to fear reaching out to Chicago law enforcement if they need help. Even more, the state of Illinois backs up Chicago’s sanctuary city status with state-wide protections for undocumented immigrants. Still, being a sanctuary city doesn’t stop federal enforcement. ICE continues to operate in Chicago. That’s why it’s so important for immigrants to know their rights, stay connected with community organizations, and ask for help when they need it. You’re not alone in this. Chicago has your back, and so do we. At Ibrahim Law Office, we’re here to help you navigate your rights, respond to changes, and protect your future. If you need legal guidance with an immigration matter, call us today at (312) 767-8611 or complete our online contact form to get the support you deserve. FAQs Chicago became a sanctuary city to make sure immigrants could live safely without fear of being reported to immigration authorities just for using city services or talking to the police. City leaders wanted to foster a community where residents could feel secure when calling 911, sending their kids to school, or getting medical help without worrying about deportation. The road to sanctuary city status began with Mayor Harold Washington back in 1985. He signed an executive order that stopped city workers from asking about immigration status, laying the foundation for future protections. In 2006, the City Council passed the official ordinance declaring Chicago a sanctuary city. Over the years, sanctuary city policies in Chicago have continued to strengthen.What Is a Sanctuary City?
Chicago’s History as a Sanctuary City
What Chicago’s Sanctuary Status Actually Does
Local Police and Agencies
City Services
Exceptions in Chicago’s Sanctuary City Policy
Illinois Trust Act & State-Level Protection
What Immigrants Should Know about Sanctuary Cities in 2025
You Are Protected From Local Enforcement
You Can Report Crimes, Go to Court, and Seek Help
Public Services Are Safe to Access in Sanctuary Cities
ICE Still Operates in Chicago and Other Sanctuary Cities
What to Do if Approached by ICE in Chicago
Connect with a Chicago Immigration Attorney
Why Did Chicago Become a Sanctuary City?
Who Made Chicago a Sanctuary City?
How Can We Help?
Our Services
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