Travel Warning for Immigrants in the U.S.

ICE's activities at U.S. airports have risen to the top of the agenda for migrants wishing to travel within the country. Recent detentions have begun to unsettle not only those facing deportation orders but also foreign nationals living in the U.S. with legal status.

According to immigration attorneys, traveling by air within the U.S. is generally possible for those with valid immigration status. However, missing documents, inconsistencies in immigration records, or past legal issues can lead to unexpected outcomes.

ICE Inspections at Airports Are Increasing

According to internal data obtained by Reuters, about 31,000 passengers were flagged by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for potential immigration violations and brought to ICE teams' attention. Following these notifications, more than 800 detentions were reported.It is said that operations initially targeting individuals with finalized deportation orders have come to encompass a broader group over time.

The detention of a married couple of religious officials in Texas whose religious‑service visas had expired at an airport has reignited debate over the scope of immigration inspections.

Experts emphasize that a valid residence status provides an important safeguard for travel, but does not by itself eliminate all risks of inspection or detention.

What documents must refugees carry to travel to the U.S.?

According to U.S. federal law, foreign nationals who have turned 18 must carry the alien registration documents that have been arranged for them.

This obligation, established under Article 264(e) of the Migration and Citizenship Law, applies not only to international travel but also to everyday life and travel within the United States.

Experts recommend keeping the following documents alongside various migration statuses:

- Green Card holders: USCIS notice extending the validity of the physical Green Card and the card if it has expired. - H‑1B visa holders: passport, current I‑94 record, I‑797 approval notice, and a pay stub or employer letter confirming employment status. - F‑1 student visa holders: passport, I‑94 record, current I‑20 document, and, if working under OPT, the employment authorization document (EAD). - Individuals awaiting visa extension or status change: receipt notice (I‑797C) confirming timely filing and other documents related to their current status.

Although officials are not expected to request these documents on every domestic flight, experts advise keeping them ready for a possible immigration check.

Attention: Those Who Don't Report Address Changes!

Another topic that migrants frequently miss is the notification of an address change.Under USCIS rules, foreign nationals are required to notify their new address within 10 days of moving, except for specific exceptions.

The procedure can be carried out free of charge on the USCIS website using the AR-11 form.

Yet, reporting the address change solely to the employer, post office, or another entity may not fulfill the legal duty to USCIS.

People who do not report their address can face a fine and up to 30 days in prison. Depending on the circumstances of the violation, deportation may also come into play.Immigration lawyers advise people who have moved but have not updated their address to complete the process without delay and to keep the application approval.

Who Should Think Twice Before Traveling by Plane?

According to experts, some immigration situations pose a higher risk on domestic flights.In particular, those with a finalized deportation order, those who have lost their legal status, and those with unresolved issues in their immigration file are advised to seek legal assistance before traveling.

Ongoing criminal investigations or past convictions can also have serious consequences for immigration.

The Laken Riley Act, which came into force on January 29, 2025, provides for mandatory detention in certain cases linked to crimes such as theft, shoplifting, and assault on a law‑enforcement officer for individuals with specific immigration statuses.

Under this framework, even a mere charge or detention record can be significant for immigration proceedings in certain circumstances.

Experts note that incidents such as driving under the influence (DUI) should not be treated the same as ordinary traffic violations.

Travelers by car can also be checked.

Immigration checks are not limited to airports.

Federal regulations in the United States grant border authorities the power to conduct immigration checks in specific areas along the country’s land borders and coastline.

Within this scope, the frequently discussed 100‑mile border zone not only covers the Mexico and Canada borders but also includes the United States' coastal sections.

Significant portions of major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, Seattle, and San Diego also fall within this area.

However, experts point out that being within the 100‑mile zone does not grant security forces unlimited search authority over every vehicle without justification. Different constitutional rules apply depending on the nature of the control.

On Interstate 15 in Southern California, the border checkpoint near Temecula is also cited as an example of these inspections. When the checkpoint is active, drivers heading north may encounter immigration questioning.

What Should Those Stopped by ICE Do?

Immigration attorneys advise that people stopped by ICE or the border patrol at airports or on the road remain calm and avoid giving false information.Claiming citizenship or submitting forged documents despite not being an ABD citizen can trigger extremely severe immigration consequences.

Experts also emphasize that people should know their rights, not sign documents they do not understand, and request a lawyer when necessary. Signing documents related to voluntary departure or deportation procedures without fully understanding their consequences is also among the important warnings.

It is recommended that lawyers keep their contact information not only on their mobile phones but also in written form.

Critical Warning from Experts: Check Your Records Before Traveling

According to immigration lawyers, there is no general situation that requires people living in the ABD with valid status to forgo all domestic travel.

However, due to increased scrutiny, checking the validity of immigration documents before traveling, keeping USCIS address records up to date, and evaluating any ongoing legal proceedings have become more important than ever.

Especially Green Card holders, those on work visas, and international students are advised to keep their status-related documents complete.

The experts' common message is clear: traveling within ABD is still possible, but for immigrants, setting out unprepared can pose serious risks.