Lawful Presence
As of August 1, 2006, Colorado House Bill 06S-1023 requires that all state agencies verify the lawful presence of all applicants for public benefits.
Who is required to show proof of lawful presence?
- All students who are classified as Colorado residents.
- All students who participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) or Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) programs.
- All students who receive state or institutionally funded financial assistance which may include scholarships, work-study, and need-based grants.
Are there any students who are exempt from having to verify lawful presence?
No, there are no exemptions from having to verify lawful presence. However, the following students are considered to have met the requirements and will not be required to submit additional information to the University:
- Any student who has completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and had valid results sent to the University of Northern Colorado.
- Any student who has completed the College Opportunity Fund (COF) stipend application process and has been successfully verified by the Colorado Department of Revenue.
- Any student who is also employed by the University of Northern Colorado and has a valid I-9 on file.
How often do I have to do this?
You will only need to complete the process once during your time at the University.
How do I complete the lawful presence verification process?
To satisfy this requirement you will need to come to the Registrar’s Office and complete the following steps:
- Complete an affidavit stating that you are a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or are otherwise lawfully present in U.S. pursuant to federal law, AND
- Present a valid form of identification
Documents that serve as valid forms of identification:
- Colorado Driver’s License or Identification Card
- Driver’s License from one of the following states: AK, AL, AZ, AR, CA, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, HI, ID, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MN, MS, MO, MT, NM, NV, NH, NJ, NY, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, WA, WV, WY. If your state is not listed here you will need to provide your birth certificate in addition to your driver’s license in order to meet the requirements.
- Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561)
- United States Passport
Instead of coming in to the Registrar’s Office, can I fax in a copy of my documentation?
No. The Attorney General’s office for the State of Colorado has determined that all identification must be presented in person. If this is not possible you must submit a notarized copy of your identification along with the affidavit to the Registrar’s Office by mail.
What are the consequences of not complying with this requirement?
All students receiving resident tuition, reduced non-resident tuition, or financial assistance will no longer qualify for those public benefits effective upon non-compliance.
Who should I contact with questions regarding lawful presence?
If you have questions please contact the Registrar’s Office at 970-351-2231 or email registrar.information@unco.edu.