Guidance for Afghan Allies Interacting With ICE

General information, not legal advice

If you are contacted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or asked to attend a check-in, the following guidance may help you protect yourself and avoid unnecessary harm.

Do

Do take ICE notices seriously.
Do not ignore a letter, phone call, or check-in notice from ICE. Missing a required appearance can create additional problems.

Do bring the documents listed in your notice.
This may include identification, parole documents, or immigration paperwork. Bring only what is requested.

Do ask to speak with a lawyer before signing anything.
You have the right to consult with an attorney. You can say, “I want to speak with a lawyer before I answer questions or sign documents.”

Do remain calm and respectful.
Even if the situation feels intimidating, staying calm helps protect you and avoids escalation.

Do share your notice with AfghanEvac if asked.
Submitting information through our form does not guarantee an outcome, but it helps identify where legal support may be needed, especially during holidays.

Do contact a qualified immigration attorney if you have one.
If you already work with a lawyer or legal organization, notify them immediately of any ICE contact.

Don’t

Don’t sign documents you do not understand.
Do not sign anything unless you understand it fully and have had the chance to ask questions or consult a lawyer.

Don’t volunteer extra information.
Answer questions truthfully, but do not offer information that is not directly asked.

Don’t bring additional people unless instructed to do so.
Only bring family members or others if the notice explicitly requires it.

Don’t assume a “check-in” is routine.
While some check-ins are administrative, others can lead to detention. Take every notice seriously and prepare accordingly.

Don’t rely on rumors or social media advice.
Immigration situations are highly individual. What happened to someone else may not apply to you.

Important Note

This information is general guidance only and is not legal advice. Immigration law is complex, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. If you believe you may be at risk of detention, seek legal help immediately.