Documents Every Immigrant Should Carry
For the first time, we’re recommending that immigrants, regardless of status, carry certain documents with them everywhere. Unfortunately, this recommendation also extends to individuals who may appear to be an immigrant but aren’t, perhaps someone who doesn’t speak English, or doesn’t speak much English, but is a US Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident. Though these tips are not fool-proof, you will have some level of protection if you happen to encounter ICE while out in the community.
We’ve all seen the stories. Lawful Permanent Residents being picked up in immigration raids. US Citizens being placed in detention. Visitors in the US with appropriate visas, including student visas, being detained and deported without warning. Upstanding members of our communities who hold green cards being held in detention without bond. Undocumented individuals who are simply in the wrong place at the wrong time and end up in removal proceedings.
For the first time, we’re recommending that immigrants, regardless of status, carry certain documents with them everywhere. Unfortunately, this recommendation also extends to individuals who may appear to be an immigrant but aren’t, perhaps someone who doesn’t speak English, or doesn’t speak much English, but is a US Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident.
Though these tips are not fool-proof, you will have some level of protection if you happen to encounter ICE while out in the community.
Passport, ID, or Birth Certificate
Regardless of your nationality, always carry some form of ID. Whatever type of ID you have is fine - your passport from your home country; your ID card or matricula; or your driver’s license from the US or your home country. For kids, carry their birth certificate or obtain a kid ID.
Proof of Status
Make sure to carry evidence of your current immigration status. If you are a naturalized citizen, carry your passport or citizenship certificate. If you’re a citizen, carry your student visa. As I write this in 2025, if you have any type of visa to be in the United States, I recommend you carry your passport with your visa inside. In the past, I would recommend carrying a copy, but now I recommend the opposite. Keep a copy of every page of your passport at a safe place at home or with a trusted individual and carry your actual passport and visa on your body.
Receipt Notice for Immigration Applications
If you have filed any immigration applications, carry a copy of your receipt notice. Remember, ICE won’t take time to look up your application to see if you’re telling the truth about your pending U Visa. Give them proof by showing them your receipt notice.
I-94
Keep a copy of your I-94 to prove you were inspected at a port of entry. You can get a copy of your most recent I-94 here. Your I-94 record proves to ICE that you entered the country lawfully and your entry documents were inspected.
This isn’t legal advice and having these documents with you does not guarantee safety and does not guarantee you won’t be detained if you encounter ICE, but this will provide some level of protection.
As always, if you have more questions, please schedule a time to speak with our attorney.