What can I do if ICE is at my door?

If Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is at your door, protect yourself:

• Stay Calm: Take a couple deep breaths and move slowly. It will help you make better decisions.

• Do Not Open the Door: Ask to see a search warrant. Have them slide it under your door. Do not open the door unless:

  1. the search warrant is signed by a judge and

  2. it has your name and address. 

• Do Not Answer Questions: You can say, "I wish to remain silent." You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or anything. If you give them information or fake papers, they will use it to deport you.

• If ICE enters your home: You can tell them "I do not consent to you being here." This may not make them leave, but can help your legal case later.

Plan ahead: Memorize the phone number of someone you trust in case you get detained. In New York City, you can get free, private immigration legal advice by calling Action NYC at 1-800-354-0365, Monday through Friday from 9AM to 6PM.

Learn more about what to do if ICE is at your workplace or approaches you in the street.