If ICE Comes to Your Home — Read This First
Stay calm. Follow these steps. Then determine your legal position before making any decisions.
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Step 1 — Do Not Open the Door
You are not required to open the door unless ICE presents a warrant signed by a judge.
Speak through the door or a window.
Step 2 — Ask for a Judge-Signed Warrant
Say:
“I will not open the door unless you show me a warrant signed by a judge. Please slide it under the door.”
A document signed only by ICE is not the same as a judicial warrant.
Step 3 — Remain Silent
Say clearly:
“I choose to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer.”
Do not answer questions about:
• Where you were born
• Your immigration status
• Where someone else is located
• Your travel history
Step 4 — Do Not Sign Anything
Do not sign documents you do not understand.
Step 5 — If They Enter Anyway
Say:
“I do not consent to a search.”
Repeat it.
Knowing your rights does not fix your immigration status.
If any of the following apply to you:
• You missed immigration court
• You previously had an order of removal
• You entered without inspection
• You married a U.S. citizen
• You have an approved I-130
• You filed asylum in the past
• You are unsure whether a removal order exists
Your options depend entirely on your procedural posture.
Most people do not actually know:
Whether a removal order exists
Whether reopening is legally available
Whether termination may be possible
Whether adjustment of status can be pursued
Acting without knowing this can permanently damage your case.