Housing assistance is crucial for many low-income families, but immigration status can affect eligibility. In 2025, undocumented immigrants remain ineligible for Section 8 housing benefits. However, some families with mixed immigration statuses can still qualify under specific rules.
Section 8 eligibility and immigration status
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), only certain categories of non-citizens are eligible for Section 8 assistance. These include:
- U.S. citizens
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Certain parolees and violence-against-women act (VAWA) petitioners
Undocumented immigrants—those without legal residency or protected status—do not qualify for Section 8 vouchers or public housing programs.
RELATED RESOURCE: Check out the official HUD Section 8 eligibility guide here
What about mixed-status households?
A mixed-status household includes both eligible and ineligible members. These families can still apply for Section 8 assistance. However, their housing subsidy is prorated based only on the number of eligible household members.
For example, if two out of four household members have eligible status, the Section 8 voucher amount would be calculated as 50% of a full household benefit.
Applicants must submit documentation proving citizenship or eligible immigration status for each household member. Those who choose not to disclose their status are considered ineligible but may still live in the household if other members qualify.
Important documents required
Applicants will need to provide:
- Proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of eligible immigration status (such as a green card, refugee documentation, or asylum approval notice)
- Declaration of citizenship or eligible status form (HUD Form 214)
Housing authorities will verify status through the SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) program operated by the Department of Homeland Security.
For updates on income limits and who qualifies for assistance, check out: Section 8 Income Limits 2025: What HUD’s New Guidelines Mean for Eligibility.
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