At a glance (120 words): If ICE knocks, you have rights. You do not have to open the door. Ask the officer to slip any warrant under the door or hold it up to a window. Look for a judicial warrant signed by a judge. An administrative warrant, such as Form I-200 or I-205, does not authorize entry without consent. You have the right to stay silent, to speak with a lawyer, and to refuse a search that is not supported by a judicial warrant. Keep calm, avoid sudden moves, and record names and badge numbers if safe to do so. After the visit, call an immigration attorney to review next steps, including safety planning, bond options, and any risks tied to past orders or criminal issues.
Key points:
- You do not have to open the door for ICE.
- Ask to see a warrant through glass or under the door.
- Judicial warrant signed by a judge permits entry, administrative warrant does not.
- You have the right to stay silent and to talk to a lawyer.
- Do not sign forms you do not understand.
Your rights at the door
- Speak through the door. Keep it closed.
- Ask, “Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?”
- Request that documents be shown through a window or slid under the door.
- State, “I do not consent to entry or search.”
- State, “I choose to remain silent. I want to talk to a lawyer.”
Warrants explained: judicial vs administrative
- Judicial warrant: Signed by a federal judge or magistrate. Shows your name or a clear description, the address, and the judge’s signature. This authorizes entry.
- Administrative warrant: Forms I-200 or I-205 signed by a DHS officer. No judge signature. This does not authorize entry without your consent.
Ask the officer to hold the warrant against the window. Check the name, address, and signature. Take a photo through the glass if safe.
Door script you can use
Through the closed door:
- “Hello. Please slide any warrant under the door.”
- “Is this signed by a judge?”
- “I do not consent to entry.”
- “I choose to remain silent. I want to speak with my attorney.”
If ICE arrives with local police
Local police sometimes stand by for safety. Your rights stay the same. Ask to see the warrant. If police show a judicial warrant for a criminal matter, follow lawful commands and contact an attorney immediately. If the visit concerns an immigration matter with only an administrative warrant, do not consent to entry.
Probation, parole, or supervised release
Some supervision terms include search conditions. Review your paperwork in advance with counsel. If a probation officer arrives with ICE, ask who holds the warrant and what authority allows entry. Keep your lawyer on speed dial.
What to prepare in advance
- Emergency plan: A family contact tree, child care plan, and a folder with key papers.
- Key papers: Copies of IDs, A-Number, past immigration orders, court receipts, proof of address, birth certificates, marriage certificate.
- Attorney info: Business card taped near the door. Practice the door script with your household.
Red flags that raise risk
- Old removal order or missed hearing.
- Pending criminal case or open warrant.
- False documents in the home or conflicting addresses on file.
After the visit
- Write down date, time, officer names, and what was said.
- Save photos of the warrant, business cards, and any papers left at the door.
- Call an immigration lawyer to review options, including stays, bond strategy, and motions to reopen if an old order exists.
Helpful links
- Work with a local attorney: Monrreallaw.com – Immigration Services
- Know-Your-Rights guidance: ACLU
- Community toolkit: NILC
This article is general information, not legal advice. Facts and local policies differ. Speak with an attorney about your situation.