Loading...
Please wait while we load the content
Legal Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, please consult with a licensed attorney.
Please wait while we load the content
Know your rights and how to respond when encountering ICE, CBP, USCIS, and other immigration agencies.
Understanding your rights when dealing with immigration authorities can help protect you and your family. This guide explains who these agencies are, what they can and cannot do, and how to handle encounters safely and legally.
What they do:
Where you might encounter them:
Important:
ICE typically wears clothing marked "POLICE - ICE" or plain clothes with badges. Always ask for identification.
What they do:
Where you might encounter them:
Note:
CBP has broader authority at borders and ports of entry than inside the U.S. Your rights are more limited when entering the country.
What they do:
Where you might encounter them:
Important:
USCIS interviews are scheduled appointments. Bring all required documents and be honest - lying can result in denial and criminal charges.
🚨 Critical: You are safest inside your home
Do NOT open the door. You can speak through the closed door or window. ICE agents need a judicial warrant signed by a judge to enter without your permission.
Don't panic. Gather family members in one room away from doors and windows.
Through the closed door, ask: "Who is it?" and "Why are you here?"
If they say they're from ICE, ask for their names and badge numbers.
Say: "Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?"
If they say yes, ask them to slide it under the door or show it through a window.
Look for:
⚠️ Important: An "administrative warrant" or "warrant of removal" signed only by an ICE officer is NOT a judicial warrant. You do NOT have to let them in with these documents.
Say clearly: "I do not consent to you entering my home."
This is important even if they have a warrant, as it preserves your rights.
Do NOT physically resist or obstruct them.
Say: "I do not consent to this search" and "I want to speak to a lawyer."
Remain silent. Do not answer questions or sign anything.
If anyone is arrested, get the names and badge numbers of officers, and call an immigration attorney right away.
"Who are you and why are you here?"
"Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?"
"Please slide the warrant under the door."
"I do not consent to you entering my home."
"I want to remain silent and speak to a lawyer."
"Am I free to go?"
"I choose to remain silent."
"I do not wish to answer any questions."
"I want to speak to a lawyer."
"I will not sign anything without my lawyer."
ICE can enter workplaces to enforce immigration laws. Employers should ask for a warrant, but ICE may sometimes enter public areas without one.
⚠️ For Employers:
Employers can ask ICE agents for a warrant before allowing them into non-public areas. They should ask agents to wait in a public area while verifying the warrant. Consult with a business attorney about workplace raid procedures.
⚠️ Important:
At ports of entry (borders, airports), CBP has broad authority. Your rights are more limited than inside the U.S.
Stay Calm and Compliant
Don't physically resist. This can lead to additional criminal charges.
Assert Your Rights
Say clearly: "I want to remain silent" and "I want to speak to a lawyer."
Don't Sign Anything
Especially voluntary departure or stipulated removal. These waive your right to see an immigration judge.
Memorize Important Information
A-number (alien number) if you have one, and your immigration attorney's phone number.
Contact a Lawyer
You have the right to call a lawyer. Ask ICE officers to allow you to contact an attorney.
Document Everything
Remember officers' names, badge numbers, what they said, and what happened. This can be important for your case.
USCIS interviews are scheduled appointments for immigration benefit applications (green card, citizenship, work permits, etc.).
While USCIS is primarily a benefits agency, they can refer cases to ICE if they discover fraud or serious immigration violations. If you're concerned about your case, consult with an immigration attorney before the interview.
To find someone detained by ICE:
locator.ice.gov
You'll need their name, date of birth, and A-number (if available)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration enforcement practices and policies change. For specific situations, especially if you're detained or in removal proceedings, consult with a qualified immigration attorney immediately.