Do not open the door. Step by step — what to say, what rights you have, and what they can and cannot legally do. Applies to everyone regardless of immigration status.
First rule
Do not open the door.
ICE cannot enter your home without a judicial warrant signed by a federal judge. An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200/I-205) is not the same thing. You are not required to open your door.
Step by step
1
Do not open the door
You are not required to open your door to anyone without a warrant. ICE officers cannot legally enter your home without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does not authorize entry. Ask them to slide any warrant under the door.
2
Through the closed door: ask for a warrant
Say through the door: "Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?" Ask them to slide it under the door or hold it up to a window. An administrative warrant is NOT a judicial warrant and does not allow them to enter.
3
Do not say anything else
Do not tell them your name. Do not confirm or deny citizenship status. Do not tell them who else is in the house. You have the right to remain silent. Say only: "I am exercising my right to remain silent" if pressed.
4
If they have a judicial warrant
If they show a warrant signed by a federal judge (not an ICE administrative warrant), they can enter. Say: "I do not consent to this search" regardless. Do not physically resist. Record everything if it is safe to do so.
5
Call a lawyer or hotline immediately
Call your immigration lawyer if you have one. If not: National Immigration Legal Services: immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory — find a free legal services provider near you. Write the number down now, before you need it.