With the upcoming change in presidential administration, many immigrants are understandably concerned about potential shifts in immigration policy. While some changes are being discussed, it’s important to remember that these are currently only words—not concrete actions. Some of the proposed changes may not even be legally or constitutionally possible, and others may take years to be implemented. Rather than worry about what we cannot control, we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves, our families, and our futures. Here’s a guide to some important actions immigrants can take to prepare for the transition.
For All Immigrants: General Preparedness and Peace of Mind
Regardless of your status, certain actions can help you feel more secure and prepared.
Be in the U.S. by January 20, 2025
If you’re currently outside the U.S., returning before this date may allow you to fall under current policies rather than any future restrictions. Of course, only make the trip if it’s safe, legal, and practical for you.
Update Family Passports
Ensure every family member’s passport is valid and up to date, even for those who are U.S. citizens. Even if you’re not planning on traveling, having current passports is essential. These serve as valid identification, and you never know when an updated passport could come in handy for official purposes.
Always Carry Identification
Make it a habit to carry your green card or work authorization card, and store a copy in a safe place at home. This way, if your card is lost, you’ll still have proof of lawful status. This small step helps safeguard your status and gives you peace of mind if questioned about your presence in the U.S.
Remember: Policy Changes Take Time
Even if policy changes are announced, they typically take at least 90 days to go into effect. This transition period gives you time to adapt. By taking steps now, you’ll be in a stronger position to adjust to any changes that come.
For Undocumented Immigrants: Essential Steps for Security
If you or a loved one is undocumented, a few precautionary steps can make a significant difference in case of unexpected circumstances. For specific information on what to do in the case of ICE detention or deportation, read our previous blog here.
Have a Safety Plan for Your Children
If you have children and are undocumented, it’s important to plan for their care in case you’re detained or face sudden deportation. This includes:
- Designating a Trusted Guardian: Identify someone you trust who can take care of your children if needed. Ensure this person knows where to find important documents, such as your children’s birth certificates, health records, and other essentials.
- Preparing Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of important contacts for your trusted guardian, such as doctors, teachers, and family members.
Having a plan can provide peace of mind and ensure your children are safe if anything unexpected happens.
Establish a Power of Attorney
Setting up a Power of Attorney (POA) allows a trusted family member or friend to manage your finances and other important matters if you’re unable to. This document empowers someone you trust to:
- Access your bank accounts
- Handle bills, leases, and property
- Make legal decisions on your behalf
A POA can be especially helpful if you’re detained or deported, ensuring your affairs are managed according to your wishes. While we do not create these at Hope Immigration, we’re happy to provide referrals to attorneys who do.
Teach Your Family About Door Safety
If someone in your home is undocumented, it’s wise to practice door safety as a precaution against unexpected ICE visits:
- Know Your Rights: ICE officers can’t enter your home without permission or a valid judicial warrant. Discuss this with your family, especially children, so they know not to open the door to strangers.
- Stay Prepared: Remind everyone to ask to see a warrant before allowing anyone entry. Once ICE is allowed into your home, they can question everyone present, so this is an important protective measure.
These steps can provide you with more control and help prevent unwelcome surprises.
For Immigrants with Pending Cases: Protecting Your Current Status
If you’re waiting on a decision for a pending case, taking certain steps now can protect your status under current policies, no matter what changes may come.
Stay in Communication with Your Lawyer
If you’re currently working with a lawyer on an immigration matter, don’t let any of your tasks fall by the wayside. Provide any missing documents or information needed to file your case as soon as possible. Filing now could:
- Protect you under existing laws and policies
- Shield you from potential fee increases or procedural changes
Taking action now can help secure your case under current rules, avoiding potential disruptions during the transition.
Renew Work Authorization as Soon as Possible
If you have work authorization that expires in the next six months, consider renewing immediately. Renewing before January 20, 2025, helps ensure that your authorization remains valid under existing guidelines, providing continuity and peace of mind. In many cases, a valid work authorization is also proof of legal status, protecting you from complications.
Carry Proof of Your Pending Case
If you have a case pending, it’s a good idea to carry your receipt as proof. This receipt shows your current status and can be helpful if you need to verify your place in the process.
For DACA Recipients: Steps to Protect Your Status and Plan Ahead
As a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient, your protections and work authorization are renewed periodically. With an impending administration change, it’s wise to act quickly to ensure that you’re prepared for any potential shifts in policy.
Renew DACA as Soon as Possible
If your DACA status expires within the next six months, start the renewal process immediately. Given the uncertainty surrounding future DACA policy, renewing now helps you secure your status under the current guidelines and minimizes the risk of gaps in your work authorization. Renewing early is particularly important because it can:
- Provide Continuous Work Authorization: A valid DACA status allows you to work legally in the U.S. Renewing early helps prevent interruptions that could impact your employment or benefits.
- Extend Your Protection from Deportation: By renewing now, you gain peace of mind knowing that you’re actively protected, especially if there are any potential limitations placed on future renewals.
Remember, the DACA renewal process can take time, so it’s best to start early to avoid any delays or unexpected processing issues.
Consider Using Advance Parole Before January 20, 2025
For DACA recipients with approved Advance Parole, using it before the presidential transition could be useful. Advance Parole allows DACA holders to travel abroad for specific reasons and then reenter the U.S. legally. Reentering with Advance Parole can potentially benefit you in several ways:
- Creates a Legal Entry Record: This entry record can be valuable if you pursue other immigration benefits in the future, such as adjustment of status. A lawful entry may make you eligible for additional immigration options that might otherwise be unavailable.
- Strengthens Your Current Standing: Using Advance Parole demonstrates that you’re traveling with legal permission, which can reinforce your overall standing under current immigration laws.
Before you travel, though, be cautious. Reentry with Advance Parole is generally granted, but it’s never guaranteed, especially during periods of policy transition. To ensure your trip is both safe and beneficial, take these precautions:
- Speak to Your Attorney First: A lawyer can help you assess your risk and understand the implications of travel with Advance Parole, particularly if you have any additional factors in your case, such as a prior deportation order or other issues that may complicate your reentry.
- Plan for Emergencies: Ensure you have emergency contact information, legal documents, and copies of your DACA approval and Advance Parole documents while traveling. This preparedness can help you navigate potential issues smoothly.
Staying Calm and Focused
At Hope Immigration, we know that times of political transition can be stressful. But by focusing on practical steps, you can help ensure that you and your family are prepared and protected. Taking action within your control—whether it’s renewing work authorizations, preparing a Power of Attorney, or carrying important documents—can offer you the peace of mind you need.
If you’re uncertain about any aspect of your case or status, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to provide the guidance, clarity, and support you need through every step of this process.