Whether you are a documented or undocumented immigrant, you have certain guaranteed, undeniable rights under the constitution. If you are an undocumented immigrant stopped by a law enforcement officer for your immigration status, there are a few tips that you need to follow.
How To Reduce Risks To Yourself
It is no secret that immigration officers keep an eye on everyone who passes through them, which is why you have to be smart when dealing with them. If a law enforcement officer asks you to show your immigration status, you need to:
Stay Calm: Keep a level head and do not resist or argue with the officer. Above all, do not try to run, even if you think the officer is violating your rights. Please keep your hands out where the officer can see them. Otherwise, they might suspect you for no reason at all, which will only make matters worse, and, trust me, you will be searching for tips to travel tips for traveling cheap when you are sent back home.
Do Not Lie: It is important that you do not lie about your immigration status or provide falsified documents to the law enforcement officer. They already know most of your information. They are only there to cross-check and make sure that nothing is amiss. If you lie, you may end up in deeper trouble than before.
What Are Your Rights As An Immigrant?
As an immigrant, you have several rights. The first is the right to remain silent and not disclose your immigration status to immigration agents, police officers, or other officials. Anything you tell the officer can be used against you later in the immigration court.
If you are not a U.S. citizen and the immigration officer requests to see your immigration papers, show them the documents (if you have them).
If the immigration agent asks to conduct a search, you have the right to say no. Law enforcement officers do not have the right to search you or your property without probable cause and without your consent. Worst case scenario, they may check your bags. Ensure you know the essential traveling tips for packing, and there should be no problems.
If you are over 18 years of age, you should make it a habit to carry your immigration papers with you at all times. If you don’t have them, let the officer know that you want to exercise your right to remain silent and that you need to speak to your lawyer before answering any questions.
What To Do If You Have Been Stopped By A Law Enforcement Officer?
In some states, you may need to tell the law enforcement officer your name if you are stopped and asked to identify yourself by the officer. Aside from giving your name, you do not need to answer more questions.
If you are driving and an officer pulls you over, they may ask you to show your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. However, you can refuse to answer any questions about your immigration or citizenship status. If you do not have your passport, there are other ways that can prove your U.S. citizenship. You can provide them with your baptism certificate, Hospital birth certificate, U.S. Census record, Early school records, Family Bible record, or even Doctor’s records of post-natal care.
Customer officers will ask you about your immigration status when arriving in or leaving the U.S. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you should only provide the officer with your name and the address of your permanent residence. If you do not answer any more questions, it may result in delays; however, the customs officers will not be able to deny entry into the U.S. if you fail to answer further questions. On the other hand, if you have a non-citizen visa, you may be denied entry into the country if you refuse to answer the customs officers’ questions.
It’s always best to be geared up for any turns and twists, which is why tips for traveling abroad always come in handy, as you can prepare yourself for anything that might happen.
How ITT Can Help Immigrants
Suppose you are an immigrant with uncertain status in the U.S. and are at risk of being apprehended by an immigration officer. In that case, we advise you to seek the services of our qualified attorney.
At ITT, our team of experienced immigration lawyers is committed to providing legal assistance to travelers and immigrants, including:
- Helping immigrants understand their legal rights and obligations
- Paying immigration bond fees for immigration jail. (Applicant is not eligible if convicted of a felony or other serious crimes (rape, armed robbery & moral issues, etc.).
- Providing deportation pocket money of $5000 from the member’s subscription fee in case of removal.
- Avoiding certain immigration complications, such as basic rules that come with a student visa for the U.S. or any other country in the world.
- Gaining power of attorney for our member immigrants, allowing ITT to retrieve the belongings if they aren’t already destroyed.
If you want to learn more about ITT, visit us at www.internationaltravelingtips.com.