What to Do If Approached by ICE at the Airport, Border, Workplace, or Home

Jul 31
3 min read

In a time when immigration enforcement continues to be a source of stress for many immigrant communities, it’s more important than ever to understand your rights when approached by U.S.

What to Do If Approached by ICE at the Airport, Border, Workplace, or Home

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Whether you’re traveling, working, or at home, knowing how to respond calmly and legally to ICE agents can protect you and your loved ones from unnecessary harm or detention. Here’s what you need to know — and what you should do — if ICE confronts you in various settings.

1. If You’re Approached at the Airport

At international airports or ports of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has broader authority than ICE. However, in domestic areas of airports (e.g., departure gates), ICE may still question individuals.

What You Should Do:

Stay calm and respectful. Do not argue or obstruct agents.
Ask if you are free to go. If yes, walk away silently.
You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or where you were born.
Do not present fake documents or lie. This can lead to criminal charges.
If detained, ask to speak with a lawyer. Do not sign anything without legal advice.

Note: Green card holders and visa holders should carry valid documents when flying internationally.

2. If You’re Stopped at the Border

Border agents can search your belongings without a warrant within 100 miles of any U.S. border, including airports.

What You Should Do:

Have your documents ready if you're not a U.S. citizen.
You must answer basic identity and immigration questions.
Do not unlock your phone or laptop. Agents can search devices but cannot force you to give a password unless you’re under arrest.
If you're a U.S. citizen, you have the right to re-enter and may refuse device searches (though this could cause delays).

3. If ICE Comes to Your Workplace

ICE may conduct workplace raids or “silent audits.” These are often targeted and may involve warrants.

What You Should Do:

Ask if they have a warrant signed by a judge. If not, they cannot enter non-public areas.
Do not run. It could be used against you as evidence of guilt.
Remain silent. You do not have to share your immigration status.
Exercise your right to call an attorney. You can remain in place and ask to contact legal representation.
Employers: Know your obligations and train staff to handle ICE inquiries lawfully.

4. If ICE Comes to Your Home

ICE agents often conduct home visits early in the morning without warning.

What You Should Do:

Do not open the door. Ask through the door if they have a signed warrant by a judge.
If they present a warrant: Ask them to slide it under the door or show it through a window.
Administrative warrants (Form I-200/I-205) are NOT sufficient to enter without your consent.
Stay silent or state your wish to remain silent.
Document the encounter if possible — record names, badge numbers, and interactions.

Your Key Rights Across All Situations

✅ You have the right to remain silent.

✅ You have the right to an attorney — even if you are undocumented.

✅ You should never sign any documents without legal counsel.

✅ You can refuse consent to a search without a judicial warrant.

✅ Do not lie or show false documents — it can lead to criminal prosecution.

Helpful Tip:

Create an emergency plan that includes important phone numbers, copies of legal documents, and instructions for loved ones. Inform a trusted friend or family member where to find this information.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a green card holder, visa recipient, or undocumented immigrant, understanding your rights is not just empowering — it's critical. ICE agents may try to intimidate or confuse you, but knowledge and preparation are your strongest defense.

If you or someone you know is affected by ICE enforcement, consult a licensed immigration attorney or trusted nonprofit like the ACLU, National Immigration Law Center, or United We Dream.

Stay informed. Stay calm. Stay protected.

Published by Caribbean Emagazine — amplifying Caribbean voices and keeping our communities informed.Follow us on Instagram @caribbeanemagazine for more immigration updates and resources.