know your rights

South Asians face unique issues such as work visa constraints, cultural/language barriers, and religious discrimination. Executive orders and policy changes can alter your legal protections and responsibilities quickly, so it is important to stay informed.

This page is designed to help south asian community members in the united states understand their rights and take proactive steps to protect themselves against evolving immigration and deportation policies.

DISCLAIMER: This page offers general information and does not replace legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently - consult a licensed immigration attorney for specific guidance. always verify local policies and requirements in your city or state.

what to do if an immigration agent confronts you

DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking. If you are inside of your house, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

If you are outside of your house, SHOW A PRINTED COPY OF THIS PAGE. Ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say you can, leave calmly.

access your know your rights card in your language below. have it printed out and on your person at all times.

Kannada

prevention & proactivity

This section covers early steps you can take to reduce risks and prepare for potential interactions with immigration authorities.

for all immigrants: Organize important documents

Keep Copies: Passport, visa papers, birth certificates, marriage certificates, work authorization, and driver’s license.
Secure Storage: Store physical copies in a safe place (e.g., fireproof box), and keep digital copies on a password-protected device or cloud folder.
Keep your visa/documentation valid. Be aware of expiry dates for visas, work permits, or drivers’ licenses.
If you’re changing jobs or addresses, update USCIS promptly.

for mixed status families: create a family preparedness plan

Emergency Contacts: Assign a primary and secondary contact person who can step in if you’re detained.

Child/Elder Care: Pre-arrange who will take care of children or elderly family members.
Emergency Bag: Prepare a bag with essential items (medications, clothing, toiletries, and important legal documents).
Social Media: Avoid publicly sharing sensitive immigration information online.

Power of attorney (poa)

Designate someone you trust to make financial, medical, or legal decisions on your behalf if you are detained.
Store POA documents in a safe, accessible location.

if ice approaches you in public

Stay Calm & Silent

Remain Silent: You are not required to discuss your immigration status. You can say, “I choose to remain silent until I speak with a lawyer.”
Don’t Hand Over False Documents: It is better to remain silent than provide fake paperwork.

Ask for Identification

If an agent identifies themselves as ICE, politely request to see an official badge or warrant.
Record Details: Officer’s name, badge number, date, and location of the encounter (if possible).

Do Not Sign Anything

ICE agents may pressure you to sign “voluntary departure” or other documents. Politely refuse until your lawyer reviews them.

if ice approaches you at home

Check for a Valid Warrant

Ask the agent to slip the warrant under the door or show it through a window.
Ensure it’s signed by a judge (judicial warrant). An administrative ICE warrant alone does not grant them entry to your home.

Do Not Open the Door

Without a valid judicial warrant, ICE agents cannot enter your home.
Politely say, “I do not consent to entry without a warrant. Please leave any information at the door.”

Exercise Your Right to Silence

Even if they threaten or intimidate you, remain calm.
Contact your attorney or a trusted contact immediately after they leave.

detention: understanding your rights

If you are detained by ICE or local law enforcement under immigration suspicion, here’s what you should know:

Procedures Upon Detention

Identify Yourself: Confirm your name but do not discuss your immigration status.
Request an Attorney: “I want to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.”
Emergency Contact: Ask for a phone call to inform your family or a community hotline.

Bond Hearing

Eligibility: Many detainees have a right to request a bond hearing before an immigration judge (except in certain cases like serious criminal charges).
Bond Cost: If granted, you or your community may need to pool resources to pay the bond for release.

Accessing Legal Aid

Contact South Asian Bar Association (SABA) chapters or nonprofits like Desis Rising Up and Moving (DRUM) or Asian Americans Advancing Justice for guidance.
Look for pro bono or low-cost lawyers through organizations such as ACLU or local immigrant rights clinics.

deportation: processes & protections

If you face removal (deportation) proceedings, it’s crucial to understand your options:

Deportation Steps

Notice to Appear (NTA): Official document stating you are in removal proceedings.
Master Calendar Hearing: Initial hearing to schedule your case.
Merits Hearing: You present your defense (asylum, TPS, etc.) before an immigration judge.
Decision: The judge may order removal or grant relief.

Possible Defenses & Relief

Asylum: For those facing persecution in home country.
TPS (Temporary Protected Status): If your homeland is unsafe due to conflict or disaster.
DACA: For eligible individuals brought to the U.S. as children.
U-Visas & VAWA: For victims of crimes or domestic violence.

Appeals

If a judge orders deportation, you can often appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).
Short Deadlines: Appeals usually must be filed within 30 days. Contact a lawyer immediately.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Below are verified organizations and references that can guide you: