What documents should you carry if approached by immigration officers?

If you are ever stopped by immigration officers in public, knowing what documents to carry can make a critical difference. The short answer is this: if you have legal status in the United States, always carry proof of that status. If you do not have legal status, you still have rights—and understanding them is essential to protect yourself and your family. In this blog, we explain what documents you should carry depending on your immigration situation, and what to do if you’re ever stopped by immigration enforcement.

This guide is based on recommendations from Denise Cabrera, an immigration attorney certified by the State Bar of California. Whether you are a citizen, permanent resident, or have a pending case, we’ll walk you through exactly what to have on you, why it matters, and how to protect your rights if you are undocumented. Keep reading to make sure you’re prepared in case immigration stops you on the street.

Why carrying documents matters

In moments of stress, such as being stopped by immigration officers, being prepared can help you avoid unnecessary detention. Having the right documents on hand can provide immediate proof of your legal status, helping officers verify your situation quickly and possibly avoid escalation. Even if you are not carrying the original documents, having a clear way to show your status, like a photo or digital copy, may help.

It is also important to know that carrying certain documents is not just about convenience—it’s sometimes required by law. For example, permanent residents are legally required to carry proof of their status at all times. Failing to do so can result in complications during an immigration stop. But legal residents are not the only ones who need to be prepared. This applies to everyone, regardless of their immigration status.

If you are a U.S. citizen

U.S. citizens are not required by law to carry proof of their citizenship at all times. However, if you have a Latino last name or appearance, unfortunately, you may still be profiled or questioned by immigration officers. In these cases, having documents that clearly demonstrate your citizenship can be helpful in avoiding prolonged questioning or wrongful detention.

The most reliable forms of identification to carry include:

• Your U.S. passport (booklet or passport card)

• A state-issued ID (though this alone may not prove citizenship)

While a driver’s license is useful, it does not confirm your immigration status. To be cautious, it is highly recommended to carry at least a copy or a photo of your U.S. passport if you are a naturalized citizen or born in the U.S.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder)

Unlike U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents are legally required to carry their green card with them at all times. Failing to do so can result in a misdemeanor under federal law.

If you are stopped by immigration and do not have your green card with you, this could raise suspicions or result in temporary detention—even if you are in the country legally. For that reason, you should always carry your physical green card or, at the very least, a clear image of the front and back of the card on your phone.

Some residents fear losing or damaging their green card and may hesitate to carry it daily. In such cases, a photo is better than nothing, but you should be aware that officers are not legally required to accept a photo as proof. The safest option is to carry the original card in a secure location, like a protected wallet or document sleeve.

If you have DACA or TPS

For individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), carrying your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is crucial. This card not only allows you to work legally in the U.S., but also serves as proof of your protected status.

While there is no explicit legal obligation to carry this document at all times, doing so significantly reduces the risk of being detained unnecessarily. If you prefer not to carry the original card because of fear of theft or loss, you should at least carry a high-quality photo of it stored securely on your phone.

Make sure the photo shows all details clearly, including your name, photo, USCIS number, and expiration date. Keeping a backup in a secure cloud service can also help if you lose your phone or access to your device.

If you have a pending immigration case

If you are currently going through an immigration process—such as applying for asylum, a visa, adjustment of status, or another form of relief—it’s important to carry receipts or notices that show your case is pending with immigration authorities.

These documents are usually known as “receipt notices” and are issued by USCIS after you submit a form or application. They contain your name, receipt number, the form type (like I-589 or I-130), and the date your application was received.

Having these documents with you can help officers understand that you are not undocumented and are actively working through the legal immigration system. While this may not prevent you from being temporarily detained, it provides your attorney with clear proof of your case, which can be used to argue for bond or release.

As always, carrying physical copies is ideal, but digital photos stored in your phone or email can be a practical backup.

If you do not have legal status

If you are undocumented and do not currently have a pending case with immigration, it is important to know that you still have rights. Most importantly, you are not required to answer questions about your immigration status. You have the right to remain silent and should exercise this right until you speak with a lawyer.

You are not required to carry any immigration documents, and in fact, carrying false documents or expired visas can sometimes be used against you. Instead, focus on knowing your rights and planning ahead.

For your safety and peace of mind:

• Memorize the number of a trusted immigration attorney

• Inform family or friends of your legal plan in case of detention

• Consider carrying a “Know Your Rights” card that explains your right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer

If you have ever been detained before or have documents from previous contact with immigration, do not carry them unless advised by an attorney. These could trigger renewed investigation or complicate your case.

Digital copies vs. physical documents

Carrying physical immigration documents every day can feel risky. Many people are afraid of losing them or having them stolen. Others simply don’t want to risk carrying such sensitive paperwork in a purse, backpack, or wallet. Fortunately, having digital copies—clear, readable photos of your documents—can serve as a reasonable backup.

While digital copies are not a substitute for the original documents, they can help in emergency situations. For example, if an officer asks you to prove your status and you don’t have your card, showing a photo on your phone is better than having nothing at all. It may not prevent detention, but it can provide helpful information until your lawyer steps in.

Always ensure your digital copies:

• Show the full document with no cropping or glare

• Include both front and back when relevant

• Are stored in a secure app, folder, or cloud service

• Can be accessed even if your phone is locked

How to respond during an immigration stop

Regardless of your status, it’s important to stay calm and respectful if approached by immigration officers. If they ask to see documents, politely ask if you are being detained or are free to leave. If you are not being detained, you have the right to walk away.

If you are detained, remember the following:

• You have the right to remain silent

• You have the right to speak to an attorney

• You do not have to answer questions about where you were born or how you entered the country

• Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer first

If you are able to show valid immigration documents, do so respectfully. If you do not have any, or choose to remain silent, continue to request a lawyer and avoid making any statements.

What if you are detained despite carrying documents?

Unfortunately, even carrying the right documents is not always enough to avoid detention. Profiling, misunderstandings, or overreach by immigration officers can still result in individuals being taken into custody.

However, having those documents makes it easier for your attorney to request a bond or fight for your release. They can prove your legal status, pending case, or eligibility for relief. The sooner your lawyer has access to this information, the better they can defend your rights.

This is why it’s not only important to carry documents, but also to make sure someone close to you—like a spouse, sibling, or friend—knows where to find additional copies or contact your lawyer if needed.

Final thoughts

Whether you are a citizen, resident, DACA recipient, or undocumented individual with a pending case, knowing what documents to carry is part of protecting yourself. Being prepared does not guarantee that you won’t face immigration enforcement, but it gives you a stronger position to defend your rights and avoid unnecessary harm.

Attorney Denise Cabrera, based in Santa Ana, California, recommends that everyone understand their legal status and take practical steps like carrying the right documents or saving digital copies. For undocumented individuals, knowing your rights is just as powerful as carrying a passport or green card.

Make sure you’re ready—not just for yourself, but for your family and your future.