Know Your Rights: Immigration & ICE Encounters
You have constitutional rights during any encounter with immigration agents — regardless of your immigration status. Print this page and keep it with you.
Your Rights
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You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, how you entered the country, or your immigration status. Say: “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
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You do not have to open your door. ICE agents cannot enter your home without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200) is not enough.
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You have the right to a lawyer. You can say: “I want to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.” The government will not provide a free lawyer in immigration court, but free legal help is available (see below).
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Do not sign anything. Do not sign any documents — especially a voluntary departure form — without talking to a lawyer first. Signing can waive your right to a hearing.
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You do not have to show immigration documents. You are not required to carry or show immigration papers to ICE agents on the street.
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You can refuse a search. Say: “I do not consent to a search.” Agents may search anyway, but stating this protects your rights in court.
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You have the right to make phone calls. If detained, you can call a family member and a lawyer.
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You can request a bond hearing. Most detainees can ask an immigration judge for release on bond (mandatory detention applies for certain criminal convictions).
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Do not lie or use false documents. This can lead to criminal charges and make your immigration case worse.
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Do not run or resist. Stay calm. Clearly state your rights. Running or resisting can lead to arrest and additional charges.
What to Do
- If ICE comes to your door: Keep the door closed. Ask: “Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?” If not, say: “I do not consent to your entry.” Do not open the door.
- If ICE stops you on the street: Ask: “Am I free to go?” If yes, walk away calmly. If no, say: “I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak with a lawyer.”
- If you are arrested: Stay calm. Do not resist. Say: “I want to speak with a lawyer. I am exercising my right to remain silent.” Do not sign anything.
- If a family member is detained: Call ILCM at 651-641-1011 immediately. Use the ICE detainee locator (1-888-351-4024) to find them. You will need their full name, date of birth, or A-Number.
Prepare Now
- Memorize the ILCM number: 651-641-1011
- Make a family safety plan: Decide who will care for your children and who can access important documents if you are detained.
- Keep important documents in a safe place — not on your person. Give copies to a trusted person.
- Know your A-Number (Alien Registration Number) if you have one.
- Talk to an immigration lawyer now — before anything happens.
Important Deadlines
| Deadline | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 1 year after arrival | Deadline to file an asylum application |
| 150 days before expiration | File your DACA renewal |
| 48 hours | ICE detainers generally expire 48 hours after your release date from local custody |
Emergency Phone Numbers
| Organization | Phone |
|---|---|
| Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) | 651-641-1011 |
| The Advocates for Human Rights (asylum) | 612-341-3302 |
| CTUL (workers’ rights, KYR trainings) | 612-720-6101 |
| National Immigration Legal Services Hotline | 1-800-354-0365 |
| ICE Detainee Locator | 1-888-351-4024 |
| 211 (United Way) — social services & emergency help | 2-1-1 |
Get Help
Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid
Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
Volunteer Lawyers Network
LawHelpMN
For more detail: See our full guide on this topic:
Immigration Rights and ICE Encounters in Minnesota
A plain-language guide to your rights during immigration enforcement encounters in Minnesota. Learn what to do if ICE comes to your door, stops you on the street, or arrests you or a family member.