Know Your
Constitutional Rights
The U.S. Constitution protects certain rights for everyone on U.S. soil, regardless of immigration status. Understanding these rights is your first line of defense.
Your Constitutional Rights
These rights apply to everyone in the United States — citizens and non-citizens alike
You have the right to remain silent and not discuss your immigration status or citizenship with police, immigration agents, or other officials.
You can say: "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering questions. If detained, you can immediately request a lawyer.
You can say: "I want to speak with a lawyer."
You have the right to refuse a search of your person, car, or home. Without a valid warrant signed by a judge, you can refuse entry.
You can say: "I do not consent to a search."
If agents claim to have a warrant, you have the right to see it. A valid warrant must be signed by a judge and have the correct address.
Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or show it through a window.
You cannot be forced to provide evidence against yourself. You don't have to sign documents without consulting an attorney.
Never sign anything you don't understand or without legal advice.
Everyone has the right to a fair hearing before a judge. This includes the right to present evidence and have legal representation.
Request a hearing before an immigration judge if detained.
Your Rights by Location
What you can and cannot do in different situations
What YOU CAN Do
- Keep your door closed and locked
- Ask to see a warrant through the window or under the door
- Refuse entry without a valid judicial warrant
- Remain silent and not answer questions
- Ask for an interpreter if you don't speak English
- Record what's happening if safe to do so
What ICE CANNOT Do
- ICE cannot enter without your consent or a valid judicial warrant
- ICE cannot force entry without a warrant signed by a judge
- ICE cannot search your home without consent or a warrant
- ICE administrative warrants (Form I-200) do NOT allow entry
Important: A valid warrant must be signed by a judge, contain the correct address, and be a judicial warrant — not an ICE administrative warrant.
Myths vs. Facts
Don't let misinformation put you at risk
MYTH
If I talk to ICE, they will let me go.
FACT
Anything you say can be used against you. Silence is your right and often your best protection.
MYTH
ICE can enter my home at any time.
FACT
ICE cannot enter your home without your consent OR a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge.
MYTH
An ICE administrative warrant allows them to enter my home.
FACT
An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does NOT give ICE the right to enter your home without consent.
MYTH
I must sign voluntary departure documents.
FACT
You have the right to a hearing before a judge. Never sign anything you don't understand or without consulting a lawyer.
MYTH
I have no rights because I'm undocumented.
FACT
The Constitution protects everyone in the U.S., regardless of immigration status. You have rights.
MYTH
If I don't open the door, I'll be in bigger trouble.
FACT
You have the right to keep your door closed. Not opening the door is exercising your constitutional rights.
Printable Rights Card
Carry your rights with you at all times
Download and print this card to carry in your wallet. It contains key phrases for communicating with law enforcement or immigration agents.
YOUR RIGHTS CARD
SafeImmigrant | Emergency: 1-800-795-1800
Available in English. Coming soon in other languages.