As an immigrant living legally or illegally in the United States, the threat of ICE is constantly on your mind. As a legal immigrant protected by the law, it’s easy to worry that someone made a mistake with your documentation. However, even as an illegal immigrant, you’re entitled to certain rights and protections under the US constitution. 

Therefore, it’s essential to understand these rights to know what to say and do if ICE comes knocking at your door and wants to enter your home.

Do You Have to Open Your Door For ICE Agents?

You should first understand that if ICE asks to enter your home, you don’t have to let them in. It’s your right as a legal or illegal immigrant to refuse entrance to any law enforcement officers if they don’t have a warrant. They’ll likely say and do things designed to pressure you into letting them in, but don’t be fooled and stand firm. 

Is ICE Required to Show Me a Warrant Before Entering My Home?

Under United States law, ICE has to show you a signed warrant from a judge to enter your home without your permission. Therefore, if ICE asks to enter your home, ask them if they have a warrant and if you can see it. If ICE has a warrant, they must show it to you upon your request before they can forcefully enter your home. 

If they have a warrant and you still refuse to let them in, they can enter your home through whatever force they deem necessary. If ICE doesn’t have a signed judicial warrant, simply tell them that you don’t consent to them entering or searching your home. If ICE agents illegally and forcefully enter your home, continue stating your lack of consent, but don’t resist them. The truth of the matter will come out in a court of law. 

Do I Need to Answer Their Questions? 

Just as criminals do when they’re arrested, you have the right to remain silent and to speak to an attorney before answering any of ICE’s questions. They can’t force answers, so hold off until you talk to an immigration attorney. 

Is It OK to Lie About My Immigration Status to ICE Agents? 

While you don’t have to let ICE officers into your home or answer their questions, you should NEVER lie about your immigration status. Lying about your immigration status or providing false documents is a crime and could lead to deportation or ICE officers legally entering your home without permission. 

What Happens if ICE Refuses to Leave? 

Just as you have the right to refuse their admittance, ICE officers can stand outside your home indefinitely. However, just because you leave your home doesn’t mean that ICE can detain or arrest you on the spot. You still have the right to refuse to answer their questions or sign any documents they present. 

How to Prepare For Visits From ICE

Whether you’re a legal immigrant or undocumented, it’s essential to be prepared in case ICE visits your home. You should have all legal documents ready to present to them, but you should also review this article so that you’re aware of your rights. You don’t have to let them into your home without a warrant, you don’t have to answer their questions, and you have the right to an immigration attorney. 

Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer to Help With ICE Issues?

As long as you understand your rights as an immigrant and follow the advice in this article, you have nothing to fear from ICE. However, if things get messy and you’re being threatened with deportation, you should contact us at Roach and Bishop.  We will help defend you in a court of law and do everything in our power to help you stay in the country. Contact us if you need assistance with immigration if you live in Tri-Cities or Eastern Washington.