The question of whether undocumented immigrants can receive federal food aid has resurfaced following the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, signed by President Donald Trump in July 2025.
The law introduced new eligibility restrictions for non-citizens seeking Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
According to the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), only certain legal immigrants remain eligible for SNAP. These include:
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Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who have lived in the U.S. for at least five years.
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Refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking under special humanitarian status.
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Children under 18 who are lawful residents, regardless of how long they’ve lived in the U.S.
Meanwhile, undocumented immigrants remain ineligible for SNAP benefits.
The 2025 legislation reinforces this restriction by requiring states to verify the immigration status of all applicants through updated federal systems.
Officials say the change aims to ensure benefits are reserved for U.S. citizens and qualifying legal residents, but advocates warn it could increase food insecurity among mixed-status families, especially those with U.S.-born children who are eligible for SNAP.
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The USDA’s memorandum clarifies that states must continue processing applications for eligible family members even if others in the household do not qualify due to their immigration status.
Bottom line:
Undocumented immigrants do not receive SNAP benefits, and the 2025 law only strengthens existing verification and eligibility limits for non-citizens.
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