ICE Presence at U.S. Airports: What Immigrants Need to Know

As of late March 2026, ICE agents have been deployed to major airports across the country. Whether you are a visa holder, a lawful permanent resident, an asylee, a DACA recipient, or anyone else navigating the U.S. immigration system, this development may directly impact your travel. 

Why Is ICE at Airports? 

A partial DHS shutdown has left thousands of TSA officers working without pay since mid-February 2026, leading to widespread callouts, resignations, and hours-long security lines at major airports. Hundreds of ICE officers have been redeployed to “assist” with airport operations — managing queues, guarding exit lanes, and checking passenger IDs. While officials describe this as a support role, ICE remains an immigration enforcement agency and its officers retain full authority to enforce immigration laws wherever they are deployed. That dual role is what has raised concern among immigrants, families, and legal experts across the country. 

Which Airports Are Affected? 

As of March 23, 2026, ICE agents have been confirmed at the following airports, with additional locations expected to be added: 

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 

• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) 

• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) 

• William P. Hobby Airport, Houston (HOU) 

• George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston (IAH) 

• John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York (JFK) 

• LaGuardia Airport, New York (LGA) 

• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) 

• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) 

• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) 

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) 

• Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) 

• Southwest Florida International Airport, Fort Myers (RSW) 

• Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan (SJU) 

This list is subject to change and may expand. If you or your family members are traveling domestically or internationally, it is prudent to assume that ICE officers could be present at any major airport. 

What Does This Mean for Immigrants? 

• Legal Authority: ICE operates under federal authority, including 8 U.S.C. § 1357, which permits immigration officers to question, arrest, and inspect individuals at ports of entry — and airports qualify as ports of entry under federal law. While the stated purpose of the current deployment is to help manage airport crowds, ICE officers retain the legal authority to verify identity, check immigration databases, and detain individuals who may have pending immigration issues, outstanding removal orders, or status violations. 

• Enforcement Actions Already Reported: Reports have already surfaced of ICE conducting immigration enforcement actions at airports separate from the TSA support mission, creating a heightened risk environment for individuals with unresolved immigration matters. 

• Increased Screening for All: Even for lawful permanent residents, visa holders, and individuals with valid immigration status, the increased enforcement presence means that identity verification and secondary screening may become more frequent. Be sure to carry current and valid documentation. 

• Guidance for Those Without Status: Individuals without lawful status should avoid travel if possible and exercise extreme caution when traveling through or near airports, as ICE has the authority to make arrests inside terminals, in parking areas, and in surrounding facilities. 

Documents You Should Carry 

Being prepared is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Whenever you travel, keep the following documents on your person or in your carry-on — not in checked luggage: 

• Lawful Permanent Residents: Your valid, unexpired green card (Form I-551). If your green card is expired or you have a conditional green card with a pending I-751, carry the receipt notice along with your card. 

• Visa Holders (H-1B, L-1, O-1, F-1, TN, E-2, B-1/B-2, etc.): Your valid passport, visa stamp, most recent I-94 arrival/departure record (available at i94.cbp.dhs.gov), and any USCIS approval notices (Form I-797). If you have recently changed status or extended your stay, carry all relevant approval and receipt notices. 

• Asylees and Refugees: Your asylum approval letter or refugee travel document, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and any court documentation reflecting your status. 

• Individuals with Temporary Protections (TPS, DACA, etc.): Your EAD, USCIS receipt notices, and any court or agency documentation confirming your protected status. 

• Individuals with Pending Applications: If you have a pending adjustment of status, change of status, or any other application with USCIS, carry your receipt notices and any EADs you have been issued. 

• Naturalized Citizens: While not legally required, carrying your U.S. passport or certificate of naturalization can help resolve questions quickly and avoid prolonged encounters. 

• All Travelers: Keep a copy of your immigration attorney’s contact information — name, phone number, and firm — on you at all times. Consider keeping digital copies of key immigration documents on your phone or in a secure cloud account as a backup. However, be aware that unlocking and handing your phone to a federal agent to show a document could be interpreted as consent to search other contents on your device. If you choose to keep digital copies on your phone, consider showing the screen yourself rather than handing the device over, and consult with an attorney about the best way to present digital documents during an encounter. 

Precautions to Take 

Beyond documentation, there are important precautions every immigrant traveler should keep in mind: 

• Arrive Early: Due to the combined effect of TSA staffing shortages and enhanced security procedures, experts recommend arriving at least four hours before your scheduled departure. Additional screening or questioning could add further delay. 

• Know Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic identification. You have the right to request an attorney before answering detailed questions. You are not required to disclose your immigration history, country of origin, or travel purpose to ICE agents beyond what is legally required. If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may state that clearly, but you are not obligated to answer further questions without counsel. 

• Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice: If an ICE officer presents you with any document to sign, politely decline until you have spoken with an attorney. Signing documents without understanding them could waive important rights or even constitute agreement to voluntary departure. 

• Stay Calm and Do Not Resist: If you are approached, detained, or questioned, remain calm, be polite, and do not physically resist. Clearly and calmly assert your right to speak with a lawyer. 

• Do Not Volunteer Information: Answer direct questions about your identity if you choose to, but do not offer additional details about your immigration history, employment, or personal circumstances. Anything you say can be used in enforcement or removal proceedings. 

• Share Your Travel Plans: Before traveling, inform your immigration attorney, a trusted family member, or friend, of your itinerary and flight details. If something goes wrong, having someone who knows your plans can be critical in securing timely legal help. 

• Have an Emergency Legal Plan: Consider speaking with an attorney before you travel so you have an established point of contact to call immediately if you are detained or questioned. 

A Note for Employers 

If your company sponsors foreign national employees, we encourage you to take proactive steps during this period. Consider notifying employees who travel frequently about the current airport environment and reminding them to carry up-to-date immigration documents at all times. Ensure that your records are organized and accessible in case an employee needs support while traveling. If an employee reports being detained or questioned at an airport, contact your immigration counsel immediately. 

Looking Ahead 

The situation at airports is fluid and evolving. The number of airports with ICE presence may expand, the scope of enforcement activity may shift, and the political dynamics driving the DHS shutdown could change at any time. What remains constant is the need to stay informed and prepared. 

If you or a family member plan to travel and have questions about how this may affect you, please contact our office at (312) 427-6163 or schedule a consultation online to speak with an experienced immigration attorney. A short consultation can identify your risks, confirm your documents are in order, and help you travel with confidence.