What to do if you’re detained by ICE

First, take a breath. You have rights, regardless of your immigration status.

1. Stay calm and do not resist

  • Do not run, argue, or physically resist.

  • Keep your hands visible.

  • Do not lie or give false documents.

2. You have the right to remain silent

You do not have to answer questions about:

  • Where you were born

  • Your immigration status

  • How you entered the United States

Say clearly and out loud:
“I choose to remain silent, and I want to speak to a lawyer.”

3. Do not sign anything without a lawyer

  • Do not sign papers, accept removal, or agree to “voluntary departure” without legal advice.

  • If you do not understand a document, say you need an interpreter.

  • Immigration officers may pressure you to sign voluntary departure documents quickly, including lying to you. You are allowed to refuse until you speak with a lawyer

4. Seek an attorney NOW, do not wait

AfghanEvac strongly recommends finding and speaking with an immigration lawyer well ahead of time.

  • Save the lawyer’s phone number in your phone and also memorize it..

  • Share it with your family or trusted contacts.

  • Waiting until detention makes everything harder and slower.

If you are detained

  • You have the right to call a lawyer

  • The government does not provide one, but you can ask for a list of free or low-cost legal services

  • Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer

5. Ask for a phone call

You have the right to call:

  • A lawyer

  • A family member

Memorize key phone numbers if possible.

6. Remember and share your A-Number

  • Your A-Number (Alien Registration Number) is critical.

  • Share it with your family or a trusted person.

  • It is the fastest way to locate you if you are transferred.

If ICE Comes to Your Home

  • Do not open the door.

  • Ask officers to show identification and any warrant through a window or to slide it under the door.

  • ICE cannot enter your home unless they have:

    • A judicial warrant signed by a judge

  • A deportation order (Form I-205) is not enough.

Say clearly:
“I do not consent to entry. I am exercising my right to remain silent.”

If a Loved One Has Been Detained: How to Find Them

Step 1. Use the ICE Detainee Locator

Search the ICE Online Detainee Locator System:

https://locator.ice.gov

You can search by:

  • A-Number and country of birth, or

  • Full name, date of birth, and country of birth

Important notes

  • It may take 24–72 hours for someone to appear.

  • Recently arrested or transferred individuals may not show up immediately.

  • Check again if you do not see them right away.

Step 2. Contact the detention facility

Once located

  • Call the facility directly.

  • Ask about phone access, visitation, and legal mail.

Step 3. Contact a lawyer immediately

  • Share the A-Number.

  • Ask about bond eligibility, release options, and court dates.

Prepare Ahead: If you believe you may be subject to detention

Drawing from lessons across immigrant communities nationally, preparation before a crisis is critical:

  • Identify a trusted immigration lawyer now.

  • Write your A number and important phone numbers on your arm in permanent marker (Sharpie).

  • Keep copies of immigration documents with someone you trust.

  • Memorize phone numbers.

  • Only carry paper copies of your documents (passports, birth certificate, EAD, other documents), not originals. ICE will keep your passport and you will not get it back.

  • Make plans for:

    • Children and school pickup

    • Medications

    • Emergency caregivers

Preparation can significantly reduce time in detention and prevent family separation.

Battle Buddies: Showing Up Matters

AfghanEvac, in partnership with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), runs Battle Buddies, a lawful, non-confrontational accompaniment effort.

What this means for Afghan community members

  • Veterans can accompany individuals to immigration court.

  • Veterans can show up as witnesses and support.

  • No interference with proceedings.

  • No confrontation with officers.

Presence matters. It reduces fear and increases accountability.

For veterans and supporters

This model aligns with proven accompaniment programs used nationally to support people attending ICE check-ins, court hearings, and other required appearances

Additional Community Support to Know About

Based on national best practices

  • Accompaniment programs and court watch efforts help shine light on changing enforcement practices.

  • Faith communities, schools, and community organizations may have plans to support families during enforcement actions.

  • Connecting with local immigrant-serving organizations is often the fastest way to access trusted help.

Key Rights to Remember

You have the right to

  • Remain silent

  • Speak with a lawyer

  • Request an interpreter

  • Contact your consulate

  • Ask for a bond hearing in many cases

This guidance is grounded in

Download