Why Are Visa and Green-Card Holders Being Detained and Deported?

Why Visa and Green-Card Holders Are Being Detained and Deported in 2025 — What You Need to Know

By Richard T. Herman, Immigration Lawyer, Author of “Immigrant, Inc.”
(18-minute read – Updated October 2025)

Introduction: The New Reality for Legal Immigrants in America

In recent months, reports of lawful immigrants — including green-card holders, H-1B workers, F-1 students, and even U.S. citizen children — being detained, questioned, or deported have risen sharply.

This surge follows the Trump administration’s renewed emphasis on “extreme vetting,” re-entry inspections, and status verification at ports of entry under Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

For many immigrants, this enforcement feels different. It’s no longer limited to those without documentation — it’s targeting people who have lived, studied, and worked legally in the United States for years.

This comprehensive guide explains why visa and green-card holders are being detained, what legal rights apply, and how to protect yourself before you travel or return to the U.S.

Understanding the Legal Landscape

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) — particularly sections 212(a) (grounds of inadmissibility) and 237(a) (grounds of deportability) — gives CBP and ICE authority to stop or remove even lawful permanent residents (LPRs) or visa holders who are deemed ineligible or inadmissible.

Key agencies involved include:

• Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – Oversees CBP, ICE, and USCIS
• CBP – Handles entry inspections and detentions at airports and land borders
• ICE – Conducts interior enforcement and deportations
• USCIS – Adjudicates benefits such as green-card renewals and work permits
• Department of Justice – EOIR – Runs immigration courts

1. Why Are Green-Card Holders Being Detained at U.S. Airports?

Even permanent residents are subject to inspection each time they re-enter the country.
CBP officers may refer you to secondary inspection if they suspect any violation, absence, or criminal record.

Common Triggers for CBP Detention

• Extended Absence from the U.S. – Stays longer than 180 days may cause CBP to question if you abandoned residency.
• Criminal Record – Even dismissed or minor offenses can trigger review.
• Pending Removal Proceedings – Traveling while under proceedings can lead to detention.
• Alleged Immigration Fraud – Officers may suspect marriage or document fraud.
• Violation of Residency Terms – Unauthorized employment abroad or filing taxes as a non-resident can raise red flags.

2. What To Do If You Are Sent to Secondary Inspection

Secondary inspection means CBP wants to verify your background, immigration history, and intent.
Stay calm and follow these steps carefully.

Step-by-Step Response

1. Stay Polite and Cooperative – Arguments or hostility will worsen your case.
2. Request to Speak with an Attorney – Although CBP is not required to provide one, you can ask to contact your lawyer.
3. Never Sign Form I-407 – This form voluntarily surrenders your green card. Signing it can permanently end your status.
4. Request a Hearing Before an Immigration Judge – You have this right under law.
5. Ask for Documentation – Request copies of any CBP decisions or paperwork related to your case.

3. How CBP Determines ‘Abandonment’ of Residency

CBP officers assess abandonment of LPR status based on multiple factors, not just time abroad.

Key Factors Considered

• Length of Absence – Trips over 6 months invite scrutiny; over 1 year without a Reentry Permit (Form I-131) may be treated as abandonment.
• Ties to the U.S. – Property ownership, tax filings, job continuity, and family connections help prove intent to return.
• Purpose of Travel – Temporary travel for work, study, or medical care is usually permissible if documented.
• Statements and Conduct – Using a foreign address, foreign tax filings, or stating intent to live abroad can hurt your case.

If challenged, do not surrender your status — request a hearing before an immigration judge.

4. Criminal Grounds That Can Lead to Detention or Removal

Under INA § 212(a) and § 237(a), several criminal offenses can make a lawful permanent resident or visa holder deportable or inadmissible.

A. Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)

Crimes reflecting dishonesty, fraud, or intent to harm others can trigger removal.
Examples:

• Fraud (identity theft, tax fraud)
• Theft or burglary
• Domestic violence
• Perjury
• Assault with intent to cause injury

Legal Thresholds:

• One CIMT within 5 years of obtaining your green card (if punishable by ≥ 1 year imprisonment)
• Two CIMTs at any time, regardless of sentence

B. Drug-Related Offenses

Nearly all drug convictions (other than a single possession of ≤ 30 grams marijuana) are deportable.
Examples:

• Possession with intent to distribute
• Trafficking or manufacturing
• Distribution or sale of controlled substances

Even an admission of drug use without conviction can trigger inadmissibility during inspection.

C. Aggravated Felonies

Defined broadly under INA § 101(a)(43), these lead to mandatory deportation without relief.
Examples:

• Murder, rape, or sexual abuse
• Drug trafficking
• Firearm offenses
• Fraud over $10,000
• Violent crimes with ≥ 1 year sentence

LPRs convicted of aggravated felonies generally cannot apply for cancellation of removal or other relief.

5. Non-Criminal Reasons for CBP Detention

Not every detention stems from a criminal case.
CBP can hold a green-card holder or visa holder for administrative or documentary reasons.

A. Abandonment of Permanent Residency

• Absence of > 1 year without reentry permit
• Multiple long absences showing no permanent home
• Filing taxes as a non-resident
• Listing a foreign address

B. Immigration Fraud or Misrepresentation

CBP may allege fraud if you:

• Entered through a sham marriage
• Used false documents
• Misrepresented intent on visa applications

Fraud findings can lead to detention, confiscation of your green card, and removal proceedings.

C. Security and Terrorism-Related Concerns

The Immigration and Nationality Act allows removal of anyone suspected of supporting terrorism, espionage, or sabotage.
CBP may act on:

• Online or financial links to banned groups
• Suspicious donations
• Electronic data from phone searches

D. Smuggling or Transporting Others

Even helping a friend enter illegally can constitute alien smuggling, a deportable offense.

E. Violating Green-Card Terms

Actions such as false claims to U.S. citizenship, voting unlawfully, or unauthorized work abroad can trigger removal.

6. What Happens After CBP Detains a Green-Card Holder or Visa Holder

CBP may:

• Send You to Secondary Inspection – Further questioning and file review
• Hold You in a CBP Facility – Short-term detention before transfer to ICE
• Issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) – Starts formal removal proceedings

If detained, you may:

• Contact an attorney (per INA § 292)
• Request bond, unless charged with an aggravated felony
• Appear before an immigration judge to contest charges

7. Real-World Cases Illustrating This Trend

Case 1: Dr. Rasha Alawieh — Lebanese Doctor Deported Despite Court Order

• Status: H-1B visa
• Incident: Detained at Boston Logan Airport; deported despite court stay
• Issue: Alleged Hezbollah link from phone data
• Concern: Violation of due-process rights and judicial authority

Case 2: Fabian Schmidt — German Engineer Detained Over Old Drug Charge

• Status: Green-card holder
• Incident: Detained returning from Europe
• Issue: 2015 marijuana charge (dismissed)
• Outcome: Hospitalization, ICE detention
• Concern: Retroactive enforcement of outdated offenses

Case 3: Ranjani Srinivasan — Indian Scholar Targeted for Activism

• Status: Fulbright F-1 visa
• Incident: Visa revoked after campus protests
• Issue: Political retaliation concerns
• Outcome: Fled to Canada

Case 4: Camila Muñoz — Peruvian Newlywed Detained on Honeymoon Return

• Status: Pending Green-Card applicant
• Issue: COVID-related overstay
• Outcome: Held in Louisiana ICE center

Case 5: 10-Year-Old U.S. Citizen with Brain Cancer Deported with Parents

• Status: U.S. citizen child; undocumented parents
• Issue: Humanitarian and medical hardship
• Outcome: Family deported despite treatment needs

8. The Bigger Picture: What These Cases Reveal

A. Expanding Enforcement Under Trump 2025

The administration’s second-term immigration blueprint emphasizes mass interior enforcement, visa re-screening, and digital-device inspections.
Legal residents are increasingly caught in dragnet operations once reserved for undocumented immigrants.

B. Erosion of Due Process

Cases like Dr. Alawieh’s highlight failures to comply with court orders, while others expose denial of counsel and rushed removals.

C. Surveillance and Political Policing

Visa revocations linked to social-media activity or political views raise First-Amendment questions.
Digital searches by CBP of travelers’ phones are lawful under CBP Directive 3340-049A, but increasingly controversial.

D. Humanitarian Consequences

From family separations to deportations of caregivers and medical patients, enforcement without discretion inflicts deep social harm.

9. How to Protect Your Green-Card or Visa Status Before Traveling

A. Limit Extended Absences

If abroad more than 6 months, file Form I-131 Reentry Permit.
Keep trips short and well-documented.

B. Maintain U.S. Ties

• Keep a U.S. address and bank account
• File taxes as a resident
• Maintain employment or community ties

C. Prepare Travel Documents

Carry:

• Valid passport and Green Card (Form I-551)
• Reentry Permit (if applicable)
• Proof of U.S. employment or residence

D. Avoid Legal Triggers

Resolve any old criminal cases.
Seek advice before international travel if you have pending charges or prior arrests.

E. Consult an Immigration Attorney

Before leaving or re-entering, obtain legal counsel familiar with CBP detentions and inadmissibility defenses.

10. CBP and Visa-Holder Issues: Common Questions Answered

What Is CBP and What Do They Do?

CBP is the federal agency managing ports of entry, enforcing customs, immigration, and border laws.

Can I Be Denied Entry with a Valid Visa?

Yes. A visa only permits you to seek admission; CBP officers decide admissibility at the port of entry.

What If My Green Card Expired While Abroad?

Apply for a boarding foil (Form I-131A) at a U.S. consulate or seek discretionary entry.

Can CBP Revoke My Green Card?

No, but they can challenge it and refer your case to immigration court. Never sign Form I-407 without counsel.

What If I Am Denied Entry?

Options include:

• Withdrawal of Application for Admission
• Expedited Removal (5-year re-entry bar)
• Deferred Inspection

Can CBP Check My Phone or Laptop?

Yes. CBP may inspect or copy electronic devices without a warrant. Refusal may cause detention or denial of entry.

See CBP Electronic Device Policy for details.

What Rights Do I Have at the Airport?

You may remain silent and request to contact a lawyer.
For a full guide, see ACLU Know Your Rights at the Border.

11. Special Concerns for Non-Immigrant Visa Holders

Tourist (B-1/B-2) Visas

Frequent entries may suggest intent to reside.
Do not work, study, or overstay.

Student (F-1/J-1) Visas

Carry Form I-20 or DS-2019, maintain full-time enrollment, and avoid unauthorized work.

Employment (H-1B, L-1, O-1) Visas

Bring Form I-797 Approval Notice, job letter, and recent paystubs.

Visa Overstay or Expired Passport

Even short overstays can result in visa cancellation under INA § 222(g).

12. What To Do If Detained by CBP or ICE

1. Stay Silent About Immigration Status Until You Contact Counsel.
2. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice.
3. Ask for a “Notice to Appear” if placed in removal proceedings.
4. Call an Immigration Attorney Immediately — ideally before making any statement.
5. Contact Your Consulate for assistance.

For free legal-aid directories, visit Immigration Advocates Network or AILA.

13. Policy and Reform Outlook for 2025–2026

Analysts expect further rulemaking by DHS to:

• Expand CBP data-sharing with ICE and USCIS
• Require social-media disclosure on Form DS-160
• Broaden “public-charge” and “security-risk” definitions
• Increase port-of-entry removals of visa holders

Legal challenges are underway, but travelers should prepare for more digital and ideological screening in 2026.

14. Key Takeaways

• Legal immigrants are not immune from detention.
• Old charges, long absences, or online activity can trigger scrutiny.
• Never sign away your rights without consulting an immigration lawyer.
• Document your ties to the U.S. before every trip.
• Seek experienced counsel if detained or referred for inspection.

MORE FAQs

What does “detention” mean for a green-card holder or visa holder at the U.S. border?
Detention means CBP holds you for additional screening—often in secondary inspection—to decide admissibility. It can be brief questioning, extended holding, or transfer to ICE if removal is pursued.

Why are lawful permanent residents (LPRs) sometimes treated as “applicants for admission”?
LPRs can be treated as applicants for admission if they trigger statutory flags (e.g., long absences, certain criminal grounds, fraud indicators). That status lets CBP review admissibility before letting them in.

What are the most common reasons green-card holders are detained on return?

• Absences of 180+ days or repeated long trips
• Old or recent arrests/convictions (CIMTs, drugs, aggravated felonies)
• Suspected immigration fraud or misrepresentation
• Using a foreign residence, filing nonresident taxes, or weak U.S. ties
• Watchlist/name hits and document discrepancies

What are the most common reasons visa holders are detained or refused entry?

• Suspected immigrant intent on a nonimmigrant visa
• Prior overstay, unauthorized work, or status violations
• Criminal history or security concerns
• Inconsistent answers, inadequate proof of ties, or dubious travel purpose
• Visa data mismatches or revocation notices

What is secondary inspection and how is it different from primary inspection?
Primary is the quick front-line check. Secondary is a deeper review: longer questioning, database checks, and document verification, sometimes with baggage and device searches.

Can CBP check my phone or laptop?
Yes. Border agents have broad authority to inspect electronic devices. Refusal can lead to delays, device seizure, or denial of admission for nonimmigrants.

What is Form I-407 and why should LPRs be careful?
I-407 records voluntary abandonment of LPR status. Signing it can end your green-card rights. Do not sign without legal advice.

What is “abandonment of residency” for LPRs?
It’s a conclusion that you no longer intended to reside permanently in the U.S., based on time abroad, ties to the U.S., tax treatment, and conduct/statements.

If CBP says I abandoned my green card, what should I do?
Decline to sign I-407, request a hearing before an immigration judge, and present strong evidence of U.S. domicile (taxes, home, job, family, bank records).

What criminal issues most often trigger detention for LPRs and visa holders?

• Crimes involving moral turpitude (fraud, theft, certain assaults)
• Drug offenses (even old ones; admissions can matter)
• “Aggravated felonies” (broad category with severe immigration effects)
• Domestic-violence and protection-order violations
• Multiple offenses indicating inadmissibility or deportability

Can dismissed charges still cause problems at the border?
Yes. Records, arrests, and admissions can prompt questions. Dispositions and certified court records help clarify outcomes.

What is expedited removal and who is at risk?
It’s a fast-track removal for certain applicants for admission (mostly nonimmigrants) found inadmissible. It carries multi-year bars and limited review. Most LPRs are not subject to it, but they can be referred to court.

What is “withdrawal of application for admission”?
A discretionary option allowing some nonimmigrants to leave voluntarily the same day instead of being formally removed. It still has consequences but is often better than expedited removal.

What is “deferred inspection”?
CBP may admit you temporarily and ask you to report to a deferred inspection office with documents to resolve a question (identity, status, court records).

Do I have a right to a lawyer in the inspection area?
You can request to contact counsel, but there’s no guaranteed right to have an attorney present during border questioning. Rights expand once formal proceedings begin.

What documents should LPRs carry to reduce detention risk?

• Valid passport and green card
• Reentry permit if away long periods
• Proof of U.S. domicile (lease/deed, utility bills, tax transcripts)
• Employer letter and recent pay stubs
• Certified court dispositions for any arrests/charges

What documents should visa holders carry to reduce detention risk?

• Valid passport/visa and approval notices (if applicable)
• Proof of purpose (itinerary, conference letter, I-20/DS-2019, employment letter)
• Evidence of funds and ties abroad (job letter, property, family responsibilities)
• Prior status compliance (I-94 history, SEVIS status, pay records)

How can I prepare if I have an old criminal record?
Obtain certified dispositions, proof of rehabilitation, and—if necessary—legal analysis of immigration consequences. Consider waivers or risk counseling before travel.

What is INA §222(g) and why does it matter for visa travelers?
If you overstay, your visa can be voided. You’ll need to apply for a new visa in your home country, and you may face bars or deeper scrutiny on future entries.

Can frequent short visits on a tourist visa raise red flags?
Yes. Patterns that look like de facto residence can trigger denial for suspected immigrant intent or unauthorized work.

How do CBP officers assess “immigrant intent” for nonimmigrant visas?
They weigh ties abroad, travel history, purpose, duration, funding, employment, study plans, and credibility of answers and documents.

What is a Notice to Appear (NTA)?
It’s the charging document that starts removal proceedings before an immigration judge, listing factual allegations and legal grounds.

What immediate steps should I take if detained by CBP or ICE?

• Stay calm and factual; don’t guess or volunteer unnecessary details
• Ask to contact counsel and your consulate
• Don’t sign anything you don’t understand
• Keep copies of all paperwork you’re given

How can LPRs legally defend against removal charges?

• Challenge inadmissibility or deportability grounds
• Apply for relief: LPR cancellation of removal, waivers (e.g., §212(h)), adjustment fixes, asylum/withholding/CAT if applicable
• Present equities: long residence, family hardship, employment, rehabilitation

How can visa holders defend against removal charges?

• Contest inadmissibility grounds
• Seek withdrawal of application, prosecutorial discretion, or waivers
• Pursue relief (asylum-related protection, certain inadmissibility waivers) if eligible

What is LPR cancellation of removal and who qualifies?
Relief for some permanent residents who meet residency and good-conduct thresholds and lack disqualifying convictions; it’s discretionary and weighs equities.

What is a §212(h) waiver and when is it used?
A discretionary waiver for certain criminal grounds of inadmissibility, available in specific contexts (often tied to adjustment or returning LPR scenarios). Eligibility is complex.

What is an INA §212(d)(3) nonimmigrant waiver?
A broad, discretionary waiver that can allow a nonimmigrant with certain inadmissibility issues to be admitted temporarily. It requires strong equities and careful preparation.

What is “mandatory detention” under INA §236(c)?
Certain criminal or terrorism-related charges trigger detention without bond. Others may be eligible for bond or parole depending on the case.

How do I seek bond if transferred to ICE custody?
Your attorney can request an ICE bond or ask an immigration judge for a bond hearing (if you’re eligible and not subject to mandatory detention).

Can social-media activity affect admissibility?
Yes. Posts can be used to question intent, affiliations, or security concerns. Expect questions about travel purpose, contacts, and activities.

How can I reduce risk from device searches?
Travel with minimal data, log out of apps, use strong passcodes (not biometrics), and carry only essential devices. Be consistent and truthful about contents and ownership.

How do long absences impact LPRs’ risk profile?
Absences over 6 months invite scrutiny; more than a year without a reentry permit is high-risk for abandonment. Multiple long trips also raise flags.

Should LPRs apply for a reentry permit for extended travel?
Yes, if you plan to be abroad 6–24 months. It signals intent to maintain U.S. residence and smooths reentry, though it’s not a guarantee.

What U.S. domicile evidence is most persuasive for LPRs?

• Filed U.S. resident tax returns
• Mortgage/lease and continuous utilities
• Active employment or business ownership
• Immediate family living in the U.S.
• Medical, school, and community records

What should students (F-1/J-1) carry to avoid detention?

• Valid passport/visa and signed I-20/DS-2019
• Proof of enrollment, SEVIS compliance, funding, and residence plans
• Evidence of authorized work (CPT/OPT) if applicable

What should workers (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN) carry?

• Approval notices, employment verification, recent pay stubs
• Clear description of role, worksites, and employer contact information
• Proof of continued employment and travel authorization

Can humanitarian factors change outcomes at the border?
They can. Medical emergencies, caregiving needs, and compelling equities may support deferred inspection, parole, or discretion—especially if well-documented.

What is prosecutorial discretion (PD) and when is it useful?
PD allows agencies or trial attorneys to prioritize or pause certain cases. Strong equities, low risk, and humanitarian factors help.

How can I prepare a “border binder” to reduce risk?
Include passport, status proof, approvals, reentry permit, tax transcripts, domicile documents, employer/student letters, certified court records, and counsel contact info.

What is a “pocket letter” and why use one?
A short, lawyer-prepared memo summarizing legal status, purpose of travel, and key evidence. It helps present your case clearly during inspection.

Can I travel if my green-card renewal or extension is pending?
Yes, with proper proof of continued status (e.g., extension notices). Carry the original notices and identity documents; expect questions.

What if my green card is lost or expired while abroad?
You may seek a boarding foil from a U.S. consulate, carry proof of identity and status, and be prepared for detailed inspection.

What if my visa was revoked while I was abroad?
Revocation can appear in systems before you’re notified. Expect secondary inspection. You may need a new visa application or a waiver.

How do prior removals or bars affect reentry?
Prior removals trigger automatic bars. Attempting entry without consent to reapply can cause criminal liability and new bars. Legal consultation is essential.

What are the biggest red flags that lead to denial of admission for visa holders?

• Inconsistent stories or missing documentation
• Frequent, long stays that look like residence
• Evidence of prior unauthorized work or study
• Weak financial support or unclear itinerary
• Risk indicators tied to security or criminality

What should I do immediately after a difficult border encounter that still resulted in admission?
Write a timeline, preserve documents, consult counsel, and consider corrective steps (deferred inspection follow-up, updated documents, FOIA requests).

How can a FOIA request help my case?
It can reveal what the government sees in your record—useful for correcting errors and preparing waivers or defenses.

What long-term strategies reduce detention risk for LPRs?

• Keep continuous U.S. domicile and resident tax filings
• Limit and document foreign trips
• Resolve criminal issues with immigration-savvy counsel
• Maintain strong employment/family/community ties
• Consider naturalization when eligible

What long-term strategies reduce detention risk for visa holders?

• Use the correct visa for purpose and keep status compliant
• Document ties abroad and return plans
• Keep financial proof and clean travel histories
• Avoid frequent or extended U.S. stays that look like residence
• Prepare credible, consistent explanations for travel

What should I never do during inspection?

• Lie or present fake documents
• Guess when you don’t know; say you don’t recall
• Sign forms you don’t understand
• Argue or obstruct; be calm and concise

What should I do if CBP pressures me to withdraw my application or sign something?
Ask to contact an attorney, request time to review documents, and weigh consequences. Withdrawal may be better than expedited removal—but don’t sign blindly.

If I’m placed in removal proceedings, what defenses might apply?

• Contesting inadmissibility/deportability
• LPR cancellation, waivers, adjustment “fixes”
• Asylum/withholding/CAT for protection claims
• PD, bond, and evidentiary challenges

When should I consult an immigration attorney?

• Before travel if you have old arrests, long absences, or status complexities
• Immediately after any detention, referral, or adverse decision
• When considering waivers, relief, or complex filings

What are the top “day-of-travel” tips to avoid problems?

• Arrive prepared with a well-organized document folder
• Answer briefly and truthfully; consistency matters
• Keep devices lean; be ready for inspection
• Have counsel’s contact info accessible
• Remain calm, respectful, and patient

What are the three biggest mistakes that trigger avoidable detentions?

• Signing I-407 without advice (LPRs)
• Traveling with unresolved criminal issues or missing dispositions
• Inconsistent answers that undermine credibility

What are quick risk-reduction wins I can implement this week?

• Pull tax transcripts, update your lease/mortgage folder, and gather pay records
• Order certified court dispositions for any past charges
• Prepare a one-page travel purpose letter and employer/student letter
• Create a document checklist and pack it in your carry-on

What’s the bottom line for lawful travelers in 2025?
Screening is stricter and broader. Preparation, documentation, and strategic counsel make the biggest difference in avoiding detention and defending your rights.

Need Help After an ICE or CBP Detention? Contact Attorney Richard T. Herman Today

If you or someone you love—a green card holder, student, temporary worker, or visitor—has been detained by ICE or CBP, every minute matters. What happens next can determine whether you stay in the United States or face removal. Don’t try to navigate this alone. Immigration detention law is among the most complex and unforgiving areas of federal practice, where small mistakes can have lifelong consequences.

For more than 30 years, Attorney Richard T. Herman has fought to protect immigrants and their families across America. He’s the co-author of Immigrant, Inc., a nationally recognized advocate, and a passionate voice for the economic and community contributions of immigrants. His firm, the Herman Legal Group — known as The Law Firm for Immigrants — offers personalized, multilingual, and results-driven representation for people detained or placed in removal proceedings.

Whether you were stopped at the airport by CBP, held for questioning after a visa overstay, or taken into custody by ICE, Richard Herman and his experienced legal team can:

• Investigate why you were detained and determine if your rights were violated
• File emergency bond or parole requests to seek your release
• Challenge removal charges through cancellation, asylum, or waiver defenses
• Coordinate with your consulate or family to ensure due process
• Prepare comprehensive legal strategies for relief, appeals, and re-entry protection

Your life, your family, and your future in the United States deserve immediate, expert legal attention. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the stronger your defense becomes.

👉 Schedule a confidential consultation with Attorney Richard T. Herman today to protect your rights and begin your defense.
Visit the Herman Legal Group booking page to schedule your meeting—virtual or in-office—and get direct legal insight from one of America’s most trusted immigration attorneys.

Government Resources (How to Locate, What to Do, Rights & Procedures)

Find and track a detainee / facility

• The ICE Online Detainee Locator allows families, lawyers, and consulates to find people in ICE custody using name, country, or A-number.
• The U.S. Government’s “Locate someone detained by ICE” guide explains how to confirm custody and find detention centers.
• ICE Detention Management & Standards outlines oversight and compliance rules, including the 2025 National Detention Standards PDF.

Check court status, counsel & pro bono

• The EOIR Automated Case Information System (ACIS) lets you look up hearing dates, judges, and case outcomes.
• You can also call the EOIR case information hotline at 1-800-898-7180 (English/Spanish).
• The official EOIR List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers and Full PDF Directory connect you with free or low-cost lawyers nationwide.

Bond, custody & appeals practice

• The Immigration Court Practice Manual includes detailed bond hearing guidance in Chapter 9.
• The BIA Practice Manual governs appeals, motions, and stays.
• For relief filings, access EOIR-42A (LPR Cancellation) and EOIR-42B (Non-LPR Cancellation) directly.

ICE contact & check-ins

• The ICE ERO Field Offices directory lists addresses and phone numbers for local Enforcement & Removal Operations.
• You can schedule or confirm appointments using the ICE Check-In portal.
• The ICE “Court Case Status” handout explains how to verify court dates and file address changes.

At the border / secondary inspection

• Find a nearby crossing on the CBP Ports of Entry map or through the CBP help portal.
• Learn what happens during inspections at CBP’s Ports of Entry overview.
• Review CBP’s Customs Bulletin on LPR re-entry under INA § 101(a)(13)(C) to understand when lawful permanent residents are treated as “seeking admission.”

Consular help if you’re a foreign national

• The Consular Notification & Access portal from the U.S. State Department explains when and how foreign nationals may contact their consulate.
• The detailed Consular Notification Manual (5th Edition) lists mandatory-notification countries and sample language.

If you’re repeatedly stopped or misidentified

• The DHS TRIP portal lets travelers request redress if they are wrongly flagged on watchlists.
• For background, review the DHS TRIP program overview and FAQ page.

Why Detention Happens (Official References)

• The USCIS Notice to Appear (NTA) policy alert outlines when removal proceedings and detention are triggered.
• The ICE Enforcement & Removal Operations site and its Detention Management section explain the scope of detention authority.
• For students and exchange visitors, DHS explains border questioning in “What Is Secondary Inspection?”.

Best Defense Pathways (Authoritative Rulebooks & How-Tos)

Ask for Bond / Custody Redetermination
Consult the Immigration Court Practice Manual’s Bond Chapter for eligibility, burden of proof, and procedural steps.

Pursue Relief from Removal

• File for Cancellation of Removal for LPRs (EOIR-42A) or Non-LPRs (EOIR-42B).
• Review the BIA Practice Manual for appeals, stays, and motions to reopen.

Coordinate with Consulates
Request assistance under the State Department’s Consular Notification and Access Program.

Fix Travel-Screening or Identity Errors
Submit a redress inquiry through DHS TRIP if repeated airport or border issues occur.

Professional Associations (Training, Hotlines & Practice Aids)

• The American Bar Association Commission on Immigration operates a national Detention Information Hotline reachable from ICE facilities.
• The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) provides attorney resources, including its Detention & Bond Library.
• The National Immigration Project (NIPNLG) publishes advisories such as its Guide to Obtaining Release from Immigration Detention and Laken Riley Act Mandatory Detention Advisory (2025).
• The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) offers training on criminal-immigration overlap, including drug-offense consequences and domestic-violence consequences.
• The Federal Bar Association Immigration Law Section hosts continuing-education and litigation resources.

Fast-Action Mini-Checklist (Link-Backed)

1. Locate & Contact: Use the ICE Detainee Locator and confirm court details via EOIR ACIS.
2. Get Counsel: Reach out through the EOIR Pro Bono List.
3. Assess Bond: Review the Bond Guidelines in Chapter 9.
4. Identify Relief: File the EOIR-42A, EOIR-42B, or appeal per the BIA Manual.
5. Visa Holders: Request consular help per the Consular Notification Program.
6. Frequent Stops: File a redress via DHS TRIP.