SB35: Utah's New Law That Opens Doors for Immigrant Professionals

Did you know there is a new law in Utah that is opening doors for immigrants with licenses and professional training from other countries? It is called SB35, and it is great news for anyone who wishes to practice their profession in the state of Utah.

Previously, licensing law restrictions were a barrier for immigrants who wanted to work in their chosen field in Utah. But now, the SB35 law allows nine state departments to issue licenses to people from other states and countries who can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and experience. This law offers two paths to obtaining a license. The first path is for people who already hold a professional license from another state or country. In this case, state departments must verify one of the following:

• That the person has at least one year of experience in that licensed occupation and that their education and skills demonstrate competence.
• That the jurisdiction that previously issued the person’s license had licensing requirements that were substantially similar to those of Utah.

  The second path is for people who did not previously hold an occupational license, but whose education and experience are substantially similar to the state of Utah’s licensing requirements for a specific profession. The Utah departments that may issue these licenses include the Department of Commerce, the Department of Environmental Quality, the Department of Health and Human Services, the State Office of Rehabilitation within the Department of Workforce Services, the Labor Commission, the Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division within the State Tax Commission, the Department of Public Safety, the State Board of Education, and the Department of Transportation. So, if you are an immigrant with a professional license or with equivalent education and experience, Utah welcomes you! This is a great opportunity for people with incredible skills to join the state’s workforce and contribute to Utah’s economy.   For more information, you may email: alexanderbybee@utah.gov