ICE agents are now being deployed to major U.S. airports, including Kennedy, LaGuardia, Newark, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, and Phoenix. The official reason is to help Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staff manage long lines during busy travel periods. While ICE says its role is mainly support, agents are still present and will likely encounter travelers without lawful immigration status.

Know Your Rights
If you do not have status or have entered the U.S. without inspection, it’s important to understand your rights at the airport. Everyone has the right to remain silent, request an attorney, and refuse to answer questions about immigration status. ICE generally does not conduct routine enforcement inside secure terminal areas, but they may be present near exits, baggage claim, and other public areas. Planning and having legal guidance can help you travel more safely.

Humanitarian Options
There are several humanitarian options for people who may have entered the U.S. illegally or whose status has expired. Many of these options can lead to a green card.  Consider the following humanitarian options:

• Asylum: For those who fear persecution or torture in their home country. 

• U Visas: For victims of certain crimes. 
• T Visas: For victims of trafficking. 
• VAWA (Violence Against Women Act): For victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen spouse, child, or parent. Children of lawful permanent residents and parents of U.S. citizens may also qualify.   VAWA allows you to file a petition and possibly a green card application without relying on the abuser, even if the marriage has ended or you are separated. 
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS): For nationals from countries affected by conflict or natural disaster. 
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS): For certain undocumented children. 

Ways to Get Help
Other options, depending on your situation, may exist. Each option has rules, deadlines, and risks. An experienced immigration attorney can help you understand what applies to you and guide you through the process.

If you are worried about ICE at airports or want to explore VAWA or other humanitarian protections to get in status, don’t wait. Contact our firm to assess your eligibility, prepare applications, and protect your rights. Knowing your options empowers you to navigate immigration safely and confidently.

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