Key Takeaways
• On June 15, 2025, Chicago suspended all online CityKey applications after ICE subpoenaed applicant records.
• City officials oppose the subpoena, refusing to share records to protect vulnerable residents’ privacy.
• In-person CityKey applications continue without digitally stored records to ensure applicant safety.
On June 15, 2025, the City Clerk’s office in Chicago made a major announcement: it would suspend all online applications for the CityKey municipal ID program. This sudden change came after the office received a subpoena from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demanding records of CityKey applicants. The move has sparked strong reactions from city leaders, immigrant advocates, and thousands of residents who rely on CityKey for essential services. The decision highlights the ongoing struggle between local efforts to protect vulnerable groups and federal immigration enforcement.
What Happened: The ICE Subpoena and Chicago’s Response
The ICE subpoena asked the City Clerk’s office to hand over records of people who applied for the CityKey ID. City officials, including City Clerk Anna Valencia and Mayor Brandon Johnson, quickly spoke out against the request. They said the subpoena puts the privacy and safety of many Chicago residents at risk, especially undocumented immigrants and people without stable housing.
City Clerk Anna Valencia called the decision to suspend online applications “tough” but necessary. She said, “We have to protect our most vulnerable residents. The federal government is terrorizing its own people.” Mayor Brandon Johnson also condemned the ICE subpoena, calling it “bad” and “wrong.” He promised that the city would fight the request to keep CityKey applicants’ information private.
Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson Lowry, the city’s top lawyer, made it clear that Chicago would not comply with the subpoena. She explained that giving ICE access to CityKey records could expose the identities of thousands of people who depend on the program for basic needs.
What Is CityKey and Who Uses It?
The CityKey program was created to help people in Chicago who have trouble getting regular government IDs. This includes undocumented immigrants, people experiencing homelessness, and others who might not have the documents needed for a state ID or driver’s license. CityKey serves as:
- A government-issued photo ID
- A Ventra card for public transportation
- A library card
- A prescription discount card
For many, CityKey is the only way to access city services, open bank accounts, pick up prescriptions, or simply prove their identity.
Why Did Chicago Suspend Online Applications?
The main reason for suspending online applications is to protect the privacy and safety of CityKey applicants. When people apply online, their information is stored digitally. If ICE gets access to these records, it could use the data to find and target undocumented immigrants or others who are vulnerable.
By stopping online applications, the city makes sure that no new digital records are created. People can still apply for CityKey, but they must do so in person. During in-person applications, documents are checked and then returned to the applicant, so the city does not keep copies.
How Can People Now Apply for CityKey?
Although online applications are paused, Chicago residents can still get a CityKey by following these steps:
- Schedule an Appointment: Go to the Chicago City Clerk’s website to book an in-person appointment.
- Gather Required Documents: Bring documents that prove your identity and that you live in Chicago. The website lists what you need.
- Attend the Appointment: Go to your appointment with your documents. Staff will check your paperwork and give it back to you right away.
- Receive Your CityKey ID: After your application is processed, you’ll get your CityKey, which you can use for city services, public transportation, and more.
Important: No online records are kept for new applications. This change is meant to keep your personal information safe from ICE and other federal agencies.
Who Is Affected by the Change?
The suspension of online applications affects thousands of Chicagoans. The CityKey program is especially important for:
- Undocumented immigrants: Many cannot get state IDs or driver’s licenses because of their immigration status.
- People experiencing homelessness: Without a permanent address or documents, it’s hard to get other forms of ID.
- Elderly residents and others with limited mobility: Some people may find it difficult to travel to an in-person appointment.
For these groups, CityKey is more than just a card—it’s a lifeline to city services, healthcare, and daily life.
Why Is This a Big Deal? Privacy, Safety, and Trust
The ICE subpoena has raised serious concerns about privacy and safety. Many immigrants fear that their information could be used to find and deport them. Others worry that sharing their personal details with the city could put them at risk if the federal government gets involved.
Chicago officials say they want to build trust with all residents, no matter their immigration status. By refusing to give ICE access to CityKey records and stopping online applications, the city hopes to show that it stands with vulnerable communities.
What Are the Policy Implications?
This situation highlights a bigger issue: the tension between local governments and federal immigration enforcement. Chicago, like many other cities, has tried to create programs that help immigrants and other vulnerable groups. But when federal agencies like ICE demand access to local records, it puts these efforts at risk.
Key policy implications include:
- Reduced Accessibility: Without online applications, some people may have a harder time getting a CityKey. This could limit their ability to access services or prove their identity.
- Increased Privacy Protections: By only allowing in-person applications and not keeping digital records, the city is trying to keep applicants’ information safe.
- Potential Legal Battles: Chicago’s refusal to comply with the ICE subpoena could lead to court cases. The outcome could affect how other cities handle similar requests in the future.
What Do Different Stakeholders Say?
City Officials
City leaders have been outspoken in their opposition to the ICE subpoena. They argue that the federal government is overstepping its authority and putting Chicago residents in danger. They see the CityKey program as a way to help people, not punish them.
Immigrant Advocates
Groups that support immigrants have praised the city’s decision. They say it’s important to protect people’s privacy and keep them safe from deportation. Many advocates worry that if ICE gets access to CityKey records, it could lead to more raids and family separations.
Federal Authorities
While ICE has not made a public statement about the subpoena, federal agencies often argue that they have the legal right to request records as part of their job enforcing immigration laws. They may say that local governments should cooperate with federal law enforcement.
How Did We Get Here? Background and History
The CityKey program started as a way to help people who couldn’t get regular IDs. Since its launch, it has become a key part of life for many Chicagoans. The program is open to all residents, but it was especially designed for those who are often left out—like undocumented immigrants and people without stable housing.
Over the years, Chicago has taken steps to protect immigrants. The city has declared itself a “sanctuary city,” meaning it limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The fight over the CityKey records is just the latest example of this ongoing struggle.
What Happens Next? Future Outlook
The city’s decision to fight the ICE subpoena could lead to a legal showdown. If the case goes to court, it could set a precedent for how other cities handle similar requests. The outcome may affect not just Chicago, but also other places with programs designed to help vulnerable groups.
Depending on what happens, the city may need to change its policies again. Officials will have to balance the need to make CityKey accessible with the need to protect people’s privacy.
What Should Residents Do Now?
If you need a CityKey, you can still get one by making an in-person appointment. Here’s what you should do:
- Visit the Chicago City Clerk’s website to schedule your appointment.
- Check the list of required documents so you’re prepared.
- Go to your appointment and bring your documents. Staff will review them and give them back to you.
- Ask questions if you’re unsure about anything. The City Clerk’s office can help.
If you’re worried about your privacy or safety, know that the city is taking steps to protect your information. No online records are being kept for new applications.
What Are the Broader Impacts?
The suspension of online applications for CityKey is about more than just paperwork. It’s about trust between the city and its residents. Many immigrants and others who use CityKey already face challenges in daily life. Losing easy access to this ID could make things even harder.
At the same time, the city’s strong stand against the ICE subpoena sends a message: Chicago is committed to protecting its most vulnerable residents, even if it means going up against the federal government.
What Do Experts Say?
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the ICE subpoena and Chicago’s response show the ongoing conflict between local programs that support immigrants and federal efforts to enforce immigration laws. Experts say that how this situation is resolved could shape future policies in cities across the United States 🇺🇸.
Where Can You Get More Information?
For the latest updates on the CityKey program, including how to apply and what documents you need, visit the official Chicago City Clerk’s CityKey page. This site has up-to-date information and answers to common questions.
If you want to learn more about how local governments can protect immigrant data, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Privacy Office provides information on privacy rights and government data requests.
Key Takeaways
- Online applications for CityKey are suspended after an ICE subpoena requested applicant records.
- In-person applications are still available. No digital records are kept for new applicants.
- City officials are fighting the subpoena to protect the privacy and safety of vulnerable residents.
- The situation could lead to legal battles and may affect how other cities handle similar issues.
- Residents needing a CityKey should schedule an in-person appointment and bring required documents.
Final Thoughts
The fight over CityKey records is about more than just IDs—it’s about who gets to feel safe and included in Chicago. As the city stands up to federal pressure, many are watching to see what happens next. For now, the message from city leaders is clear: Chicago will do what it can to protect its residents, no matter their background or immigration status.
If you or someone you know needs a CityKey, don’t wait—make an appointment and get the help you need. And keep an eye on the news for updates, as this story is far from over.
Learn Today
CityKey program → A municipal ID allowing Chicago residents to access city services and public transportation safely.
ICE subpoena → A legal demand from Immigration and Customs Enforcement for applicant records related to CityKey.
Undocumented immigrants → Individuals residing in the U.S. without official immigration authorization or legal status.
Digital records → Information stored electronically, which can be accessed or shared by authorities like ICE.
In-person application → Applying by physically visiting a location, avoiding digital filing to protect personal data.
This Article in a Nutshell
Chicago halted online CityKey applications after ICE subpoenaed records, threatening immigrants’ privacy. City leaders oppose this, ensuring safety by requiring in-person applications without digital record-keeping. This move underscores tensions between local protections and federal immigration enforcement, highlighting Chicago’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable residents amid growing legal battles over immigration policies.
— By VisaVerge.com
