U.S. to require proof of immigration status for federal housing aid: 80,000 people at risk

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) published on Thursday a final rule that will require verification of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status for every member of a household receiving federal housing assistance, regardless of age, including children.

The measure, which covers public housing, Section 8 vouchers and other programs, eliminates the option to self-certify status and the exemption that spared people 62 and older from some of the paperwork. In addition, the prorated assistance that allowed mixed-status families to live together with a reduced subsidy will no longer be permanent: it will now be temporary only, while each member's status is verified.

The rule takes effect on December 14, 2026. Housing agencies must notify affected tenants before January 11, 2027, and families will have 90 days to submit evidence. According to estimates from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, cited by The Intercept, about 80,000 people could be affected, including nearly 37,000 children. HUD Secretary Scott Turner defended the measure, saying the assistance is intended for U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens.

Photo: ViveUSA

Source: National Apartment Association and ViveUSA (AP)