Deportation Info and Resources

The help and resources you need to keep up to date with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE). On this page you will find helpful information and resources about deportation, your rights, and what to do if I.C.E. were too stop you.

Sanctuary Cities: Policies, Impact on Immigrants, and Protection Strategies

What Are Sanctuary Cities?

Sanctuary cities are jurisdictions (such as cities, counties, or states) that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, like ICE. This means local law enforcement generally does not actively assist ICE in detaining or deporting undocumented immigrants unless required by law. Sanctuary policies may include not holding individuals for ICE beyond their release date, not honoring ICE detainers, or limiting ICE access to local databases.

These policies aim to build trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, encouraging individuals to report crimes, seek help, and access services without fear of deportation. However, sanctuary cities do not provide immunity from federal immigration laws—they simply limit the involvement of local agencies in immigration enforcement.

Key Policies of Sanctuary Cities

1.Non-Cooperation with ICE: Local police do not inquire about immigration status or detain individuals for ICE unless there is a criminal warrant.

2.No ICE Detainer Compliance: Sanctuary cities refuse to honor ICE detainer requests, which ask local police to hold undocumented immigrants beyond their release time.

3.Access to Public Services: Undocumented immigrants can access essential services like schools, healthcare, shelters, and legal aid without fear of immigration enforcement.

4.Community Trust Policies: Local law enforcement prioritizes public safety over immigration status, encouraging undocumented individuals to report crimes and cooperate with authorities without fear of deportation.

3. Major Sanctuary States & Cities (As of 2025)

Major Sanctuary Cities

Sanctuary policies are strongest in these cities:

Sanctuary States

These states have enacted statewide sanctuary policies:

Pros and cons of sanctuary cities.

Here are some positive and negative aspects of seeking sanctuary cities.

Less Fear of Deportation

Immigrants are less likely to be reported to ICE by local police.

Access to Public Services.

More protections in healthcare, education, and housing.

Improved Community Safety

Encourages immigrants to report crimes and cooperate with police.

Federal Retaliation

Some states (e.g., Texas, Florida) have passed laws overriding local sanctuary protections.

ICE Still Operates in Sanctuary Cities

Federal agents can still make arrests, even if local police do not cooperate.

Limited Protection from Deportation

Sanctuary policies do not prevent ICE from targeting undocumented immigrants in other ways (workplace raids, arrests at home, etc.).

How Immigrants Can Protect Themselves in Sanctuary Cities

Things you can do to protect yourself in sanctuary cities.

Know Your Rights.
You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status.
You do not have to open the door for ICE without a judicial warrant.
You can refuse to sign documents given by ICE officers.
Stay Informed.
Keep up with local sanctuary policies, as they change over time.
Identify trusted immigrant advocacy groups for legal help.
If detained, ask to speak to a lawyer immediately.
Avoid High-Risk Areas.
ICE does not operate in “sensitive locations” like schools, churches, and hospitals (except in extreme cases).
Avoid workplaces and neighborhoods where ICE raids have been reported.
Get a Local ID (If Possible).
Some sanctuary cities (like NYC), offer municipal ID cards that help with access to services without revealing immigration status.

Sanctuary policies provide some protection, but they do not make a city completely safe from ICE enforcement. Immigrants should always be aware of their rights and have an emergency plan in place.

Know Your Rights

What are my rights?

Right to remain silent: You have the right to not answer questions or make statements.

Right to refuse unlawful searches: You do not have to allow authorities to search you or your property without a warrant or probable cause.

Right to legal representation: You have the right to speak with an attorney if you’re detained or arrested.

Right not to open the door without a warrant: Authorities must have a valid warrant to enter your home or property.

Who Needs to Know Their rights?

Undocumented immigrants: Understanding your rights can help protect you from deportation or unlawful treatment.

Green card holders: Know your rights to avoid any misunderstandings or violations of your status.

Visa holders (students, workers, tourists): Being aware of your rights can prevent issues with immigration enforcement or legal complications.

Situational Guidance: Anyone who might be at risk of immigration enforcement, regardless of status, should be informed about their rights in case of encounters with authorities.

Legal Support

Where to Find Help?

List of pro bono and low-cost immigration attorneys: Access a list of immigration lawyers who provide free or affordable legal services.

Local immigrant legal aid organizations by state: Find nonprofit organizations in your state that offer legal assistance to immigrants.

Contact information for rapid response networks: Get the contact details for emergency response networks that can help in urgent immigration matters.

Culturally Tailored Legal Support:

Support specific to communities such as Haitian, Latino, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, etc.
Access to legal services in multiple languages to ensure clear communication and understanding.

Preparation Guides

What documents to carry: Always have identification, your lawyer’s contact information, and a list of emergency contacts on hand.

How to prepare an emergency plan for family members: Create a plan that includes trusted contacts, responsibilities, and procedures if a family member is detained.

Legal Status & Documentation:

Steps to renew visas, work permits, and green cards: Keep track of expiration dates and apply for renewals in advance to maintain legal status.
How to check for deportation risks: Stay informed about local policies, workplace protections, and your rights to minimize risk.

Workplace Protections:

Rights at work, regardless of status: Employees, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to fair wages, safe working conditions, and protection from discrimination.
How to report labor violations: Report issues like wage theft, unsafe working conditions, or unfair treatment to agencies such as the U.S. Department of Labor or OSHA. You do not need to disclose your immigration status when filing a report.

Community Support

Where to Seek Help?

Local immigrant community centers: These centers offer support, resources, and guidance for immigrants in your area.

Religious and cultural organizations offering assistance: Many religious and cultural groups provide legal aid, food, shelter, and other community services.

Mental health and trauma counseling services: Access counseling services for emotional support, especially if dealing with the stress of immigration issues or fear of deportation.

State-Specific Information

Focus on High-ICE-Activity States:

States like New York, New Jersey, California, and cities like Chicago and Boston often experience higher ICE activity. Stay informed about local enforcement practices in these areas.

State-Based Legal & Social Services:

Access a list of organizations that provide direct assistance, such as legal aid, housing support, and advocacy for immigrants.

State & City Protections:

Sanctuary city policies: Understand how sanctuary city policies protect immigrants and limit cooperation with ICE.
Local government programs for undocumented immigrants: Many cities and states offer local programs that provide healthcare, education, or other services to undocumented individuals.

Legal Support

Where to Find Help?

List of pro bono and low-cost immigration attorneys: Access a list of immigration lawyers who provide free or affordable legal services.

Local immigrant legal aid organizations by state: Find nonprofit organizations in your state that offer legal assistance to immigrants.

Contact information for rapid response networks: Get the contact details for emergency response networks that can help in urgent immigration matters.

Culturally Tailored Legal Support:

Support specific to communities such as Haitian, Latino, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, etc.
Access to legal services in multiple languages to ensure clear communication and understanding.

Preparation Guides

Emergency Planning for Family Members in Case of Deportation

If a family member is detained or deported, it’s critical to have a plan in place to protect your children, spouses, and other dependents. Below is a step-by-step guide to preparing for this situation.

Assign a Trusted Caregiver for Children & Dependents

Choose a legal guardian: Select a trusted family member or close friend who can care for your children if you are detained.
Sign a Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit (if available in your state): This allows the guardian to enroll children in school and seek medical care.
Create a Power of Attorney (POA): Gives legal authority to someone you trust to make financial and legal decisions for your children and assets.

2. Prepare Important Documents:
Keep copies of essential documents in a safe and accessible place, including:

- Birth certificates (for children and dependents)
- Passports or ID cards (for all family members)
- Social Security numbers (if applicable)
- Medical records and health insurance information

School enrollment and contact information

3.Financial & Housing Preparation:

Add a co-signer to your bank account: A trusted person can access funds for your family if needed.
Set up automatic bill payments: This ensures essential expenses like housing and utilities are paid on time.
Ensure rent/mortgage agreements are in order: Consider adding a trusted individual to the lease or mortgage for added security.

4.Emergency Contact List:

Immigration Attorney: Save their phone number and keep it written down for quick access.
Family & Friends: Identify trusted people who can care for children and manage affairs if needed.
Local Immigrant Support Organizations: Keep contact info for nonprofits that assist detained immigrants.

Educate Your Children & Family Members

Teach children who to call if a parent is detained.
Practice what to do if ICE comes to the home: Teach them not to open the door and to stay calm.
Ensure they know their emergency contacts by memory.

6. Know Your Rights & Create a Family Preparedness Plan:

Have an “in case of emergency” folder: Keep essential documents in a secure, easily accessible place.
Discuss the plan with family members: Make sure everyone knows their role and responsibilities.
Identify local advocacy groups and legal services: Know who can assist if a deportation happens.

How to Check for Deportation Risks:

Workplace Protections:
- Rights at work, regardless of status: Employees, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to basic workplace protections.
Avoiding ICE Raids at Work:
- Understand that ICE can conduct workplace raids, but they need a warrant or permission from an employer to enter. If ICE comes to your workplace, you have the right to ask to see the warrant before letting them in.
Know Your Rights During an ICE Encounter:
- If ICE approaches you at work, you have the right to remain silent and request a lawyer. You do not have to provide any information about your immigration status unless required by law.
Document Everything:
- If you experience workplace harassment or unfair treatment related to your immigration status, document all incidents and keep records. This can be useful if you need legal assistance later.
Legal Assistance:
- Seek advice from an immigration lawyer or nonprofit advocacy group to help assess your risk and guide you on actions to take to protect your job and your rights.

Community Support

Where to Seek Help?

Local immigrant community centers: These centers offer support, resources, and guidance for immigrants in your area.

Religious and cultural organizations offering assistance: Many religious and cultural groups provide legal aid, food, shelter, and other community services.

Mental health and trauma counseling services: Access counseling services for emotional support, especially if dealing with the stress of immigration issues or fear of deportation.

WILLIBEDEPORTED.COM IMMIGRATION SUPPORT GUIDE/ mpailegal.com/yodepotem.com

Emergency Preparedness for Undocumented Immigrants

Essential Documents to Have Ready (Just in Case):

Identification:
- Passport (if available): A valid passport is crucial for identification and travel.
- Birth certificate (translated if necessary): Keep a copy of your birth certificate, and ensure it’s translated if needed.
- State-issued ID or consular ID (if applicable): These IDs can help verify your identity, especially in the absence of a passport.

Legal & Immigration Documents

Work permit (if applicable): Ensure your work permit is up-to-date and easily accessible.

Green card (if applicable): Keep a copy of your green card for proof of permanent resident status.

Visa & I-94 form (if applicable): Have your visa and I-94 arrival/departure record available for reference.

Any immigration applications or receipts: Maintain copies of any pending immigration applications, receipts, or notices from USCIS.

Copies of prior deportation orders (if any): Keep any previous deportation orders or legal documents related to prior immigration proceedings.

3. Proof of Residency & Family Ties

Lease agreements or utility bills in your name: These documents show your residence and ties to the community.

School records for children: Keep records that show your children’s enrollment and connection to local schools.

Medical records: Documentation of family members’ medical history or ongoing care to show established ties to the area.

Emergency Contact Information

Immigration attorney’s name & number: Keep your attorney’s contact details readily available for legal support.

Trusted family members or friends: List trusted individuals who can assist in case of emergency or detention.

Local immigrant support organizations: Include the contact information for local nonprofits or groups that provide assistance to immigrants.

Safety Plan

Memorize key phone numbers (3-5): Ensure you can contact important people, such as family members or your attorney, in case of an emergency.

Assign a trusted person to keep your documents: Designate someone reliable to safeguard essential documents like IDs, legal papers, and emergency contact information.

Have a written plan for children in case of detention: Prepare and communicate a plan with your children, including who will care for them and how they can contact you if you’re detained.

Step-by-Step Guides for Legal Status & Documentation

Visa Renewals

Check Visa Expiration Date:
Review your visa expiration date and make sure to start the renewal process well before it expires.

Gather Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents, such as your passport, current visa, and any supporting paperwork for your renewal.

Submit Renewal Application Form:
Complete and submit the appropriate renewal application form at least 6 months before the visa expiration date.

Pay Required Fees:
Pay any fees associated with the visa renewal. Check the USCIS or consulate website for the current fee schedule.

Schedule and Attend Biometrics Appointment:
If required, schedule and attend your biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and photos.

Monitor Case Status Online:
Create or log into your USCIS or embassy account to track the status of your application and respond to any requests promptly.

Work Permit Renewals

Check Expiration Date & Start Early:
Begin the renewal process at least 6 months before your work permit expires to avoid any gaps in employment authorization.

Complete Form I-765 for Employment Authorization:
Fill out and submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

Gather Supporting Documents:
Collect all required documents, such as your current work permit, proof of identity, and any other necessary paperwork.

Pay Fees or Apply for Fee Waiver:
Pay the application fee unless you are eligible for a fee waiver. Check the USCIS website for current fees.

Submit Application to USCIS:
Submit your completed application to USCIS, following the instructions provided.

Track Application & Respond to Requests:
Create or log into your USCIS online account to track the status of your application. Respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS.

Check Deportation Risks

Know Your Immigration Status:
Understand your current immigration status and any potential issues that may put you at risk for deportation.

Check for Removal Orders with EOIR Hotline:
Contact the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) hotline to check if there are any removal orders or pending hearings against you.

Consult an Immigration Attorney:
Speak with an experienced immigration lawyer to assess your risk and discuss your options for defense or relief.

Avoid Fraudulent Legal Advice:
Be cautious of unqualified individuals offering legal advice or services. Always seek help from licensed and reputable immigration attorneys or legal aid organizations.

Situational Guides: What to Do If You Encounter ICE?

If ICE Comes to Your Home

Do Not Open the Door: Unless ICE has a warrant, you’re not required to open the door. Ask to see it first.

2.Stay Calm and Be Polite: Keep calm and do not argue. You have the right to remain silent and avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted.

3 .Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel: Signing could potentially waive your rights and lead to self-deportation.

Record the Encounter:Record the Encounter: If possible, record the interaction to have a record of what happened for legal protection.
Call an Attorney or Legal Aid Immediately

If ICE Stops You in Public

1.Do Not Panic or Run: Stay calm. Running or panicking can make the situation worse.

2. Ask if You Are Free to Leave: You do not have to answer questions or allow ICE to search you or your belongings unless they have a warrant. Politely ask if you are free to leave.
Remain Silent & Refuse to Answer Questions
4. Do Not Show Fake Documents:Using fake documents can lead to arrest and serious legal trouble. Always be truthful.

5.Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel: Signing could potentially waive your rights and may lead to self-deportation.

If ICE Comes to Your Workplace

1. Do Not Panic or Run: Stay calm. Running or panicking can make the situation worse.
Ask If They Have a Warrant: Ask to see their warrant. Without one, they should not enter your workplace.
3. Stay Calm and Be Polite: Keep calm and do not argue. You have the right to remain silent and avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted.
4. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel: Signing could potentially waive your rights and lead to self-deportation.
5. Do Not Reveal Immigration Status: You don’t have to answer questions about your immigration status. Stay silent to protect your rights.
6. Call a Lawyer Immediately: If detained, you have the right to speak to a lawyer.

If Questioned at an Airport or Border Checkpoint

Have Your Documents Ready (If Applicable):
Be prepared to show your passport, visa, or other relevant documents if you have them.
Remain Silent If Asked About Immigration Status:
You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. You have the right to remain silent.
If a U.S. Citizen, You Do Not Have to Answer Questions:
As a U.S. citizen, you have the right to refuse to answer questions regarding your citizenship or immigration status.
If Detained, Request a Lawyer Immediately:
If you are detained, request legal representation right away. You have the right to a lawyer.

If Mistaken for an Undocumented Immigrant:

Ask If You Are Being Detained: Politely ask if you are being detained or free to leave.

Remain Silent & Request a Lawyer: You have the right to remain silent and request a lawyer before answering any questions.

If You Are a Legal Resident or Citizen, Show Valid ID: If you’re a U.S. citizen or legal resident, present valid identification to clarify your status.

Do Not Sign Anything: Avoid signing documents without legal counsel, as signing could waive your rights or lead to unwanted consequences.

Seek Legal Assistance Immediately: Contact an immigration lawyer or legal aid group for advice and assistance.

Legal Support & Resources: Know local organizations or hotlines that provide legal support to those facing deportation or immigration issues.