Foreign nationals travelling through airports in the United States face a growing risk of arrest following a recent surge in enforcement actions by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to legal warnings.
Legal advisor Armando Olmedo issued the warning during an appearance on Spanish-language television network N+ Univision, cautioning that hundreds of immigrants could end up in federal custody while passing through airport security checkpoints.
The interventions occur as personnel from the US Transportation Security Administration request valid identification from passengers as part of routine airport security screening procedures.
Categories of travellers at risk
Immigration authorities are targeting foreign nationals who lack regular immigration status in the country and who cannot demonstrate a valid legal status or an active legal proceeding.
The heightened risk of detention also impacts migrants who have active applications for asylum or permanent residency, as federal authorities do not view a pending application as confirmation of lawful stay, according to a report by BBC News Mundo.
An ICE spokesperson confirmed to the news outlet that neither an employment authorization document nor a pending immigration application grants official legal status within the United States.
Role of immigration and security agencies
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, operating as a principal law enforcement arm of the US Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for enforcing federal immigration laws, conducting detention operations, and carrying out removals. The Transportation Security Administration, another agency within Homeland Security, manages security screening at commercial airport checkpoints across the nation. N+ Univision serves as a major television news network broadcasting to Spanish-speaking communities across the United States.
Expert recommendations for travellers
In light of the increased enforcement at airport security gates, immigration experts strongly advise foreign nationals to consult a qualified immigration lawyer before undertaking travel from any US airport. A legal professional can evaluate an individual's precise legal standing in the country and determine the safest course of action.
For individuals who currently have an ongoing immigration application or legal proceeding, experts emphasize that travellers must carry official government identification and all necessary supporting documents at all times to prove to law enforcement officers that their legal process remains active.
