How to Safety Plan for Detention?

  1. Decide who (preferably an attorney; if not an attorney, a dependable adult family or friend) you will be calling if you are detained by immigration? You may only have one chance of making one phone call. 
  2. Talk to this person and make sure this person agrees that s/he will answer your call.
  3. Memorize this person’s phone number. You may not have your cell phone with you to look for this person’s phone number. 
  4. Share with this person your A#, DOB, and your correct-full name.  Also, give this person proof of your immigration status (e.g., a legible color photocopy of your green card, employment authorization document (EAD), I-94, visa stamp on your passport, receipt of filing for asylum (I-797C), etc.). Let this person know where they can find your original documents. 
  5. If you are the primary caretaker of minor children or adults with disabilities, make a safety plan. For example, choose a responsible adult who can be appointed as a caretaker in your absence.  If appropriate, make your dependents part of this preparation. 

What should I do if I am detained by immigration?

  1. If you have a valid immigration status, show the US immigration document proving that. For example, your green card, EAD, I-94, etc. 
  2. If you believe the government or someone in your home country will hurt you and you fear returning to your home country, clearly state so. You may be given an opportunity to talk to another officer or see a judge. However, it is important to state the possible risk of getting deported to a country other than your home country as a result.
  3. If you have been in the USA for more than two years, clearly say, I have been in the USA since [Approximate Month and Year] and here is the document proving that. You should not be put on an expedited removal proceeding.
  4. You have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination (criminal). 
  5. You do not have to sign any documents. Signing documents whose contents you are not familiar with could possibly result in your agreement to be deported without seeing a judge.  
  6. Find out where you are. Ask for the name, city, and phone number of the facility in which you are detained. 
  7. Ask if you are on a fast-track deportation (expedited removal) or if you will be seeing an immigration judge.
  8. Find out if there is a bond set for you to pay to get out of the detention.
  9. Make a phone call to your attorney, family, or friend. Clearly say where you are and any other info you were able to find out about your detention.

If you have any further questions, please call the immigrant resource hotline using the number below.

1 (833) 468-4664

You can also access "Know Your Rights" resources in different languages by visiting our KYR Repository here.

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