Travel Risks for Immigrants This Summer

Summer is already in full swing, and many people are making travel plans. But if you're an immigrant—especially with pending status or a green card—leaving the United States right now could put your future at risk. In today’s immigration environment, even U.S. citizens are facing increased scrutiny when reentering the country. That’s why we’re urging everyone to travel at your own risk, and strongly consider staying within the U.S.—or even better, staying local.

Heightened Risks at U.S. Ports of Entry

Recent reports show that green card holders are being detained, interrogated, and pressured to sign Form I-407, which voluntarily gives up permanent resident status. Once signed, this document strips you of your green card—and the consequences are devastating.

Even elderly lawful permanent residents have been targeted. In several cases, green card holders returning from family visits abroad were detained at airports and misled into giving up their residency rights without legal counsel present.

Here’s the truth:

• You are not required to sign Form I-407.

•  You have the right to speak with an immigration attorney.

• You should never sign anything you don’t understand at a port of entry.

Even U.S. Citizens Are Being Questioned

This climate isn’t just affecting immigrants. U.S. citizens have also reported being detained, questioned for hours, and interrogated about their political views or international connections. One U.S. citizen returning from France was held for hours by Customs and Border Protection and questioned about their online content and beliefs.

Another was detained after a short visit to Canada and later described feeling “treated like a criminal” at the U.S. border.

U.S. Territories: Not as Safe as You Think

Many people assume that traveling to U.S. territories is completely safe if you're not a U.S. citizen — but that assumption can be dangerous. While places like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are part of U.S. jurisdiction, they are not free from immigration enforcement.

Travelers have reported being subject to immigration screenings and questioning when returning from U.S. territories to the mainland, especially if they are not citizens. If you're undocumented, have DACA, TPS, or are in the middle of an immigration process, these encounters can lead to detention or removal proceedings.

Bottom line: Even within U.S. territories, immigration enforcement is active—and travel still carries risk.

Recommendations for Immigrant Travelers

If you’re thinking about traveling outside the U.S. this summer—even for a short trip or family visit—pause and consider the following advice:

• Avoid international travel unless it’s a true emergency.

• Do not sign any forms (especially Form I-407) without first speaking to a lawyer.

• Stay informed about current immigration policies and CBP practices.

• Speak with an immigration attorney before making any travel plans if you’re not a U.S. citizen.

• Keep documents in order, including proof of continuous residence, and avoid long trips that could raise red flags.

If You're Undocumented, Even Local Travel Can Be Risky

Immigration enforcement doesn’t just happen at borders and airports. Routine traffic stops—for something as small as a busted taillight or expired registration—can lead to fingerprinting and immigration holds.

Whether you’re taking a road trip across states or just leaving your city, any interaction with law enforcement could trigger an ICE referral. Even a short trip could turn into a one-way encounter with detention or deportation.

Our Best Advice: Stay Local and Stay Safe

Unless your trip is an emergency, this summer is not the time to take chances.

We strongly recommend immigrants—especially those undocumented or with pending status—avoid traveling outside the U.S. or its territories, and ideally avoid unnecessary travel altogether.

A staycation is the safest choice. Explore a local park, host a cookout with family, visit nearby museums, or just rest. Your peace of mind and legal security are worth more than any getaway.

If there’s a path to legal status, we’ll help you find it. Call us at 678-250-5449 — don’t let travel risks derail your future. Let’s talk about your options first.