Yes, undocumented immigrants in NYC still have rights.
If you are undocumented and got hurt in New York, you might feel scared to speak up. Many people are afraid they’ll be deported, get a big hospital bill, or be told they can’t get help because they don’t have legal status. But here’s the truth: you still have rights. You can take legal action.
In 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14159. It says undocumented immigrants must register or face penalties. It also stops federal money from going to sanctuary cities and blocks taxpayer help for undocumented people.
But none of this stops you from filing a personal injury claim. Civil lawsuits are still allowed. Courts do not report you to immigration. Lawyers will keep your information private. New York still protects injured immigrants.
This blog explains how undocumented immigrants can file a personal injury claim, get medical help, and protect themselves.
Have an emergency? The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provides immigration relief.
What’s Inside This Guide
- Can I file a personal injury claim if I’m undocumented in New York?
- What rights do undocumented immigrants have in the U.S.?
- Can undocumented immigrants get workers’ compensation in New York?
- Will I get deported for working illegally in the U.S.?
- Can undocumented immigrants get unemployment in New York?
- Do illegal immigrants get benefits in New York?
- Who qualifies for NYC health insurance?
- Can I sue if I don’t have a green card or work permit?
- Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in New York?
For a free legal consultation call 212-977-2020
Can I file a personal injury claim if I’m undocumented in New York?
Yes. Being undocumented does not take away your right to sue. If someone else caused your injury, like in a car accident, at work, or in a public place, you can file a claim. You can ask for money to cover your medical bills, time off work, and pain.
What rights do undocumented immigrants have in the U.S.?
You still have legal rights. Even without papers, you have the right to sue and be treated fairly in court. The law protects you if you’ve been hurt.
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Can undocumented immigrants get workers’ compensation in New York?
Yes. If you get hurt at work, you can ask for workers’ compensation. It doesn’t matter if you’re paid in cash or don’t have a Social Security number. You are still allowed to ask for help.
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Will I get deported for working illegally in the U.S.?
No. Filing a personal injury claim will not cause deportation. These claims are not shared with immigration. Courts and lawyers must keep your information private.
Can undocumented immigrants get unemployment in New York?
Usually, no. But if your injury made you miss work, you may still be able to ask for lost wages in your injury claim.
Do illegal immigrants get benefits in New York?
In most cases, undocumented immigrants don’t qualify for public benefits. But if you were injured, you can still win a settlement to help cover your costs. This is not a government handout—it’s a legal claim.
Who qualifies for NYC health insurance?
NYC has a program called NYC Care. It gives low-cost or free healthcare to people without insurance, including undocumented immigrants. Hospitals also treat emergencies, no matter your status.
Can I sue if I don’t have a green card or work permit?
Yes. You do not need any legal immigration status to sue. If someone caused your injury, you can file a claim and ask for help.
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in New York?
Yes. New York lets undocumented immigrants apply for a driver’s license under the Green Light Law.
You Don’t Need Papers to Get Justice
Even if you don’t have a visa, green card, or Social Security number, you can still get help.
Chaikin Trial Group helps undocumented immigrants in NYC, Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Long Island get the money they deserve. We respect your privacy. We will not ask for papers. Our lawyer, Ian Chaikin, even gives clients his personal cell number, and we will arrange transportation for you if needed.
Call us at (516) 908-8659 for a free, private consultation. We will listen, answer your questions in English, Spanish, Turkish, or Hebrew, and help you stay safe.
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Legal Disclaimer: If you believe this information is relevant to your situation, please contact our office directly to schedule a consultation. Mr. Chaikin is licensed to practice law in New York. The blog herein is not legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship with Chaikin Trial Group. The information is in the form of legal education and is intended to provide general information about the matter within the question.
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