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Immigration Law

This guide provides information on Texas and federal immigration laws.

General Information


About This Guide

Immigration law is complex, and laws and policies regarding immigration have changed rapidly in recent years. This guide was created to provide information on Texas and federal laws related to immigration. Information and resources from government agencies and other organizations that handle various aspects of immigration in the United States are also included.

Please note: this is an area of law that is evolving very quickly. The information contained in this guide is subject to change based on new laws, administrative policies, and regulations.

Texas and Federal Law

Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)

This act went into effect in 1952 and broadly governs immigration and citizenship in the United States. Found in U.S. Code Title 8, Chapter 12, Sections 1101-1537.

Title 8, Code of Federal Regulations: Aliens and Nationality

Title 8 of the CFR contains the regulations issued by various federal agencies that deal with immigration.

Texas Government Code Chapter 752. Immigration

Understanding the Law

Reading the law itself can be complicated. To help you understand the law, below we link to resources that attempt to explain the law in “plain English.”

Know Your Rights

These resources explain basic rights that all people living in the United States are entitled to. 

Federal Agencies

These federal agencies are responsible for enforcing or implementing different aspects of U.S. immigration law.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Department of Justice (DOJ)

Department of State (DOS)

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

E-Books and Databases Available from the Texas State Law Library

These e-books and databases have information on various aspects of immigration law and can be viewed by those who have signed up for a free library account with the State Law Library. Only Texas residents can register for a library account online. Signing up is free. 

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