Immigration Policy in Arlington, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Arlington or are thinking about moving there, immigration policy are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Arlington has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of immigration policy, and some of them might surprise you.

Sanctuary Policy Preemption

Arlington is not a sanctuary city. Texas SB 4 (2017) bars cities, counties, and police departments from limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities or refusing to honor ICE detainer requests.

Key details: Sanctuary status: Not a sanctuary city. Governing law: Texas SB 4 (2017). Penalty per day: Up to $25,500. Detainers honored: Yes via Tarrant Co Jail.

Officials adopting sanctuary policies face removal, civil penalties up to $25,500 per day for first violations and $25,500 for subsequent days, and potential criminal misdemeanor liability for sheriffs refusing detainers.

This is one of the stricter rules in Arlington's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

E-Verify Mandates

Texas requires E-Verify for state agencies and state contractors under Government Code 673.002. Arlington does not impose its own city-wide E-Verify mandate, but state-funded projects at AT&T Stadium and UTA must comply.

Key details: City E-Verify mandate: None for private employers. State law: Tex Gov Code 673.002. Covered employers: State agencies and contractors. Federal penalty: Up to $27,894 per worker.

State agencies that fail to require E-Verify in contracts can be reported to the comptroller. Contractors who falsely certify compliance risk contract termination, debarment from state work, and federal IRCA penalties up to $27,894 per unauthorized worker.

The Bottom Line

Arlington's immigration policy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Arlington is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Arlington's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.