If you have been told to report to ICE
ICE check-ins happen for different reasons. Some people were released at the border or from detention with a notice to report. Some are under an order of supervision because they have a final removal order that has not been carried out. Others are enrolled in an alternatives-to-detention program with an ankle monitor or a phone app, and report in person from time to time.
In every case the appointment is with Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), the part of ICE that handles custody and removal. It is not a hearing. There is no judge, and nothing about your immigration case is decided there. But ICE can make custody decisions at a check-in, which is why preparation matters.
Immigration law is federal, so these rules are the same in Virginia, Maryland and DC.
What happens at an ICE check-in
You arrive at the ERO office listed on your notice, check in at the front, and wait. An officer reviews your file and asks questions: your current address, whether you are working, whether anything has changed, and whether you have travel documents or pending applications. The officer may take fingerprints or a photo.
Most check-ins end with a new appointment date, sometimes months away, sometimes sooner. The officer may change your conditions, for example by adding or removing a monitor, or asking you to bring a passport next time.
Sometimes the officer detains the person. This is more likely when there is a final removal order and ICE has, or expects to get, a travel document from your country; when you have missed prior check-ins; or when there is a recent arrest. It can also happen without an obvious reason. We will not pretend the risk is zero, because it is not.
What to bring to your ICE check-in
Bring originals and a set of copies, and leave a second set with a family member.
- Your appointment notice and any order of supervision or release paperwork ICE gave you.
- A government photo ID. Bring your passport only if ICE asked for it, and talk to a lawyer first if you have a final order.
- Proof of your current address, such as a lease or utility bill.
- Receipt notices for any pending applications, appeals or motions, and your work permit if you have one.
- Proof of compliance: pay stubs, tax returns, school records for your children, letters from your employer or church.
- Your lawyer's name and phone number, and Form G-28 if we represent you.
- A family plan: who picks up the children, where important documents are kept, and a power of attorney if you want one in place.
How an ICE check-in lawyer at USG Law Group prepares and accompanies you
Before the appointment we review your full history: whether you have a final order, whether any appeal or motion is pending, and what ICE is likely to see in your file. If you have a final order, we look at whether a motion to reopen, a stay of removal request (Form I-246) or another path makes sense, and whether it should be filed before you walk in.
We file our notice of appearance (Form G-28) so ICE knows you are represented, and we prepare a packet of documents showing your compliance, your family ties and your pending case. We go over the questions you are likely to be asked so you can answer calmly and truthfully.
We can accompany you to the check-in. Officers do not always allow the lawyer into the interview room, but having your attorney present in the building, with your file in hand, means that if ICE moves toward detention, someone is already there to speak for you and your family knows immediately. Attorney Sandra Leiva handles our immigration court (EOIR) and detention matters and takes over right away if a bond hearing or emergency motion becomes necessary.
When the risk of detention is higher
The people at greatest risk are those with a final order of removal and no pending stay, appeal or motion, especially if their country issues travel documents quickly. Missed check-ins, a new arrest, a change of address that was never reported, or a prior removal also raise the risk.
If you are in that group, do not skip the appointment. Skipping it almost always makes things worse and can lead to arrest at home or work. Instead, talk to a lawyer before the date so that any protective filing is in place and your family is ready.
If your situation is lower risk, for example a pending asylum case with a recent work permit, the check-in is usually routine, but you should still bring your documents and know your rights.
Why families choose USG Law Group for ICE check-ins
Attorney Marianela Uribe, our founder, is an immigrant herself. She is licensed in Maryland and Virginia and serves clients in Washington DC. Clients tell us we explain everything in detail and respond quickly, and Gigi, our USCIS Practice Manager, is known for being kind and patient on the phone, which matters when you are scared.
We offer evening, weekend and virtual appointments, and offer payment plans. Everything can be done in English or Spanish. Related pages: Appeals and Motions to Reopen, Deportation Defense, and Bond Hearings.
