KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Know your rights. Know what to do.
If you or someone you know encounters immigration officials, it helps to know your rights before you need them. Centro Hispano connects our community with trusted information and resources to help you prepare.
You have rights, even if you are not a U.S. citizen.
You have the right to remain silent.
Ask, “Am I free to leave?”
Do not lie or provide false documents.
Do not physically resist an officer.
You can ask to speak with a lawyer.
You do not have to open the door just because immigration officials are outside.
Ask the officer to identify themselves and ask whether they have a warrant. If they say they do, ask to see it. A warrant signed by a judge is different from an administrative immigration document.
What are your rights in each situation?
IN YOUR HOME
If ICE comes to your home, you have rights. Learn what to do at the door, how to respond to a warrant, and what to do if officers enter your home.
IN YOUR CAR
A traffic stop can be stressful, especially if immigration questions come up. Learn what you may be asked, what you have to provide, and how to handle a search.
AT WORK
Immigration officials may conduct enforcement actions at workplaces. Learn about your rights and what you can do if ICE comes to where you work.
IN PUBLIC
If immigration officials approach you on the street or in another public place, knowing what to say can help. Learn about your right to remain silent and when you can leave.
AT THE AIRPORT/BORDER
Airports and border crossings have different rules than other places. Learn what to expect when interacting with immigration officials and what rights you have while traveling.
IF YOU ARE DETAINED
If you or someone you love is detained, knowing what to do next matters. Learn how families can find someone in detention and where to look to locate the legal help they need.
Make a Family Preparedness Plan
PLAN FOR YOUR CHILDREN
If you are suddenly unable to care for your children, having a trusted adult ready to step in can make a difficult situation easier. Talk with that person ahead of time and make sure they know your children's needs, school information, and important contacts. Update your children's emergency contact information with their school and, when possible, list a trusted adult who can be reached and available to care for them if you are detained or unable to do so. Most importantly, make sure your children know who they can turn to if you are not available.
ORGANIZE IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Keep copies of important documents and information in a safe place where a trusted person can find them. This may include birth certificates, passports, immigration documents, school records, medical information, and emergency phone numbers. Having this information organized ahead of time can save your family time and confusion during an emergency.
USE A PREPAREDNESS PLAN
The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) offers a free, step-by-step Family Preparedness Plan to help families organize these details before they are needed. The plan covers childcare arrangements, emergency contacts, important documents, and other practical steps families can take.
Family Preparedness Plan: English
Plan de Preparación Familiar: Español
Be Careful Who You Trust
IMMIGRATION SCAMS ARE REAL
Be cautious of anyone who promises a guaranteed immigration result, asks you to sign blank paperwork, or claims they can help because they have a special connection with immigration officials.
A notario is not necessarily an immigration attorney. Before paying for immigration help, make sure you are working with a qualified attorney or accredited legal representative.
Prepare Your Workplace or Organization
Businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations can take steps to prepare for an immigration enforcement action. Having a plan in place can help staff understand their rights and responsibilities and know what to do if immigration officials arrive.
This resource includes guidance and tools for employers, nonprofits, and community organizations preparing for immigration enforcement actions.
Trusted Resources
CENTRO HISPANO HAS GATHERED INFORMATION FROM ORGANIZATIONS THAT PROVIDE KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AND IMMIGRATION RESOURCES.
Aldea PJC
A local nonprofit organization providing immigration legal services and referrals, including more affordable legal assistance for individuals and families.
ImmigrationLawHelp.org
A nationwide directory that helps people find nonprofit organizations and affordable immigration legal service providers.
Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center (PIRC)
Know Your Rights information for situations at home, work, in your car, in public, and more.
ACLU of Pennsylvania
Know Your Rights information about interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: Know Your Rights
Current Pennsylvania resources and information for immigrant communities.
UnidosUS
Resources covering immigration, family preparedness, legal assistance, and avoiding scams.
Need Help Finding a Resource?
You don't have to figure out where to start on your own. Centro Hispano can help connect you with community resources and organizations that may be able to assist.