What to do if stopped or detained by US immigration agents

FLYWIRE

Volunteers of the Lawyers for Good Government have released the following advice to travelers to the United States regarding President Donald Trump’s executive order on immigration:

If you are traveling to the United States, please read this.  It includes important information about the travel ban and advice concerning what to do if you are detained by U.S. government officials.

What is the travel ban?

On January 27, 2017, President Trump signed an executive order barring citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States for ninety (90) days.

The countries are Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.

Who does the travel ban affect?

The travel ban does not affect naturalized U.S. citizens from the seven countries.

The U.S. government has clarified that the travel ban does not apply to Green Card holders.

However, there remains significant confusion about the travel ban and its application by U.S. government officials.  All individuals entering the United States should expect additional questioning and scrutiny.

What should I do if I am detained?

Do not sign any documents.  There are media reports that U.S. government officials have pressured individuals to sign documents surrendering their Green Cards.  If you are asked to sign a document, ask to speak with an attorney.

Ask to speak with an attorney.  Non-citizens who have been detained are entitled to speak with an attorney.

Tell a relative or friend your travel plans.  Make a plan, and make sure someone will know if you are detained.

If you or someone you know needs help, call to speak to an attorney:

Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights Coalition:  +1 202 331 3329
American Civil Liberties Union:  +1 212 549 2500

Information was prepared by volunteer members of Lawyers for Good Government.