Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution. Learn more here about your rights as an immigrant, and how to express them. Skip navigation. Select a scenario. Law enforcement asks about my immigration status How to reduce risk to yourself Stay calm.
Keep your hands where police can see them. Your rights You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials. Anything you tell an officer can later be used against you in immigration court. If you are not a U. If an immigration agent asks if they can search you, you have the right to say no. Agents do not have the right to search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.
What to do in such an encounter In some states , you must provide your name to law enforcement if you are stopped and told to identify yourself. Customs officers can ask about your immigration status when entering or leaving the country. If you are a lawful permanent resident LPR who has maintained your status, you only have to answer questions establishing your identity and permanent residency.
Refusal to answer other questions will likely cause delay, but officials may not deny you entry into the United States for failure to answer other questions. If you are a non-citizen visa holder, you may be denied entry into the U. Share this scenario:. Do not lie or give false documents. Prepare yourself and your family in case you are arrested. Memorize the phone numbers of your family and your lawyer. Make emergency plans if you have children or take medication. Your rights You have the right to remain silent.
If you wish to exercise that right, say so out loud. In some states, you may be required to provide your name if asked to identify yourself. You do not have to consent to a search of yourself or your belongings, but police may pat down your clothing if they suspect a weapon. If you are arrested by police, you have the right to a government-appointed lawyer. If you are detained by ICE, you have the right to consult with a lawyer, but the government is not required to provide one for you.
