If Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is at your door, it's essential to know your rights and follow some important steps to protect yourself:

  1. Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and composed. Panicking can make the situation more difficult.

  2. Do Not Open the Door: You do not have to open the door for ICE or law enforcement unless they have a valid search warrant signed by a judge. Ask to see the warrant before opening the door. Make sure the warrant is specific to your address and has your correct name.

  3. Do Not Answer Questions: You have the right to remain silent. You can politely say, "I wish to remain silent" and avoid answering any questions about your immigration status or anything else.

  4. 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.

  5. Memorize an emergency contact: Memorize the phone number of someone you trust in case you get detained.

You can get free and confidential 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.

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Last Reviewed: October 19, 2023