Newark's City ID Cards Help Immigrant Workers To Start Businesses

Newark’s fledgling municipal ID card program has already made a difference in the lives of its immigrant population.

The ID program – which officially rolled out on Aug. 1 – provides an official city ID card to any resident above the age of 14, regardless of their immigration or housing status.

• See related article: Newark Launches Municipal ID Card Program

It’s an important step towards legitimizing the residency and human rights of the city’s immigrant population, supports of the program have stated.

Twenty-five new businesses have been registered with the city, including an immigrant from Honduras who opened a mechanics shop and several ice cream street vendors, Voices of NY reported.

“With the municipal ID in hand, along with the Tax ID provided by the IRS to immigrants who lack legal residency documents, a consular identification card, or their passport and proof of residency, the entrepreneurs were able to complete documentation in order to start their businesses,” Voices of NY wrote.

According to city administrators, almost 1,500 ID cards have been issued since the program began.

City officials have stated that the ID card program will:

• Serve as proof of identity and proof of residency regardless of immigration status
• Provide access to cultural institutions and schools and within the City
• Help residents who do not have access to other forms of identification to interact with city agencies, local authorities and open bank accounts

Click here to learn more about Newark’s ID card program or to register online.