Richmond's Immigration Policy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles immigration policy a little differently. In Richmond, Virginia, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Sanctuary Policy Preemption

Virginia Code Section 15.2-916.2 prohibits any locality, including Richmond, from adopting sanctuary policies restricting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Richmond has no formal sanctuary ordinance and complies with state law.

Key details: Governing statute: Va. Code 15.2-916.2. Sanctuary policies: Prohibited statewide. Richmond status: No formal sanctuary. RPD cooperation: Honors lawful detainers.

A locality enacting a sanctuary ordinance violates Virginia Code Section 15.2-916.2 and faces state preemption challenges, potential injunctive relief, and removal of conflicting policies.

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

E-Verify Mandates

Virginia Code Section 40.1-11.5 requires state agencies and certain public contractors to use the federal E-Verify system. Richmond follows state law for city contracts above statutory thresholds; private employers face no city mandate.

Key details: Governing statute: Va. Code 40.1-11.5. Threshold: Contracts above $50,000. Private mandate: Not required. Federal I-9: Required nationwide.

Public contractors failing to enroll in E-Verify under Section 40.1-11.5 risk contract termination, debarment from future state work, and civil penalties pursued by the Attorney General.

The Bottom Line

Richmond'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 Richmond is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Richmond can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.