Our Tips for Immigrants Traveling in 2018

January 20, 2018

By Landerholm Immigration Law

If you are an immigrant living in the United States in 2018, you probably know how uncertain and stressful the times have become. Under the Trump Administration, immigrants—both legal and undocumented—have faced challenges unlike those we’ve seen for several decades. The issues surrounding immigration are often heightened in the context of travel. For example, as we saw just last year, entry into the country was a problem when President Trump signed off on an executive order that targeted those of certain nationalities. In just a few hours, it stranded thousands of people at airports all over and outside of the U.S., preventing them from entering the country—even those with a legal right to be here! So what should you be thinking about when you’re an immigrant who is traveling this year? If you’re unsure, it’s important to speak with a trusted and experienced immigration law attorney who can help you determine whether a certain type of travel is a good idea for you. At Landerholm Immigration, we know how scary immigration law issues are and have the experience to help. In the meantime, however, here are some important tips to remember when making travel plans this year.

Always travel with your green card or passport

If you are a documented immigrant, it is essential that you always travel with your green card or passport. Although average citizens are not entitled to demand proof of your legality, law enforcement and other officials (e.g. at airports) are.

Be wary of international travel

If you are undocumented, then you cannot travel internationally because you will not be allowed back into the U.S. Such a ban has the potential to last forever. If you are in the U.S. legally, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re in the clear either. As we saw in 2017, things can change overnight so it is essential to plan out any and all international travel with the help of a trusted immigration attorney.

Always remember that you have rights

Whether you are here legally or are undocumented, it is important to remember that you have rights. If you don’t speak English well, travel with a Red Card. Red Cards help immigrants defend their constitutional rights in the event that they are questioned or confronted by an official. There are several organizations that create these cards for immigrants and your lawyer can help you get one as well. Speak with an experienced immigration law attorney. As an immigrant, it’s important that you learn as much as you can about the policies that are relevant to your status. If you are an immigrant and are planning to travel in 2018, or are unsure of what your rights might be, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (510) 756-4468. At Landerholm Immigration, we have the compassion and knowledge to make sure you are well prepared to face whatever immigration challenges come your way.

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