How to Handle Immigration Enforcement Visits - in English and Spanish

Let’s talk about something that can be nerve-wracking for any restaurant or business owner—immigration enforcement visits. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) can make all the difference in protecting your team’s rights while keeping your business compliant.

Know Your Rights from the Start

Not All Warrants Are Equal

If immigration officers show up, the first thing you should check is the type of warrant they have.

Here’s the deal:

• A judicial warrant (signed by a judge) is required for them to enter private areas like your kitchen, storage rooms, or offices.

• Administrative warrants (Forms I-200 or I-205) are NOT enough for entry.

Before allowing access, review the warrant carefully. Your private spaces are just that—private.

Protecting Your Team

Your Employees Have Rights Too

Your staff should understand their rights during these visits:

✅ They don’t have to disclose their immigration status.
✅ They can provide their real name but are not required to show ID.
✅ They have the right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer.
✅ They don’t have to sign anything or agree to a search.

Empower your employees with this knowledge—it can make a big difference.

Your Role as the Owner or manager

Stay on Top of Paperwork

Keeping your documents in order is one of the best ways to avoid issues. Make sure:

✔️ I-9 forms are up to date and stored properly.
✔️ Work authorization documents are organized and easily accessible.
✔️ Employee records are reviewed regularly for compliance.

Preparation now can save you major headaches later.

What to Do If Immigration Officers Show Up

If enforcement officers arrive, follow these steps:

📞 Call your attorney or head of hr immediately.
😌 Stay calm—easier said than done, but crucial.
📝 Document everything—note officer names, actions, and anything they take. Deputize a US Citizen to film interactions without interfering with proceedings.
🚪 Track entry and exit times.

After they leave, assess any damage, gather witness statements, and help detained employees connect with legal support.

Training & Prevention: Get Your Team Ready

Run Regular Training Sessions

A well-prepared team is your best defense.

• Hold periodic training on what to do in case of an enforcement visit.

• Post rights information in break rooms or common areas.

• Maintain an emergency contact list for legal support.

Stay Organized & Avoid Common Mistakes

🚫 What NOT to Do:
❌ Don’t interfere if officers have a valid judicial warrant.
❌ Don’t lie or provide false information.
❌ Don’t hide or destroy documents.
❌ Don’t instruct employees on what to say.
❌ Don’t obstruct legal arrests.

Final Thoughts

Being prepared isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Keeping your paperwork in order, training your team, and knowing your rights can help you handle these situations with confidence.

🔹 Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and not legal advice. For specific concerns, consult an immigration attorney to ensure you’re fully protected.

¿Tienes un Restaurante? Qué Hacer Si Llega Inmigración

Para los dueños de restaurantes, una visita inesperada de agentes de inmigración puede ser estresante. Conocer tus derechos—y los de tus empleados—puede marcar la diferencia.

Conoce las Reglas

No todas las órdenes son iguales:

• Órdenes judiciales (firmadas por un juez) son necesarias para ingresar a áreas privadas como la cocina u oficina.

• Órdenes administrativas (Formularios I-200 o I-205) NO permiten la entrada.

Siempre revisa la orden antes de permitir el acceso.

Protege a Tu Equipo

Tus empleados también tienen derechos:

✅ No tienen que revelar su estatus migratorio.
✅ Pueden dar su nombre, pero no están obligados a mostrar identificación.
✅ Pueden pedir un abogado y negarse a firmar cualquier documento.

Asegúrate de que tu personal conozca estos derechos.

Si Llega Inmigración, Haz Esto:

📞 Llama a tu abogado de inmediato.
📝 Documenta todo: nombres de los agentes, lo que hacen y lo que toman.
🚪 Registra la hora de llegada y salida.

Después, evalúa el impacto, ayuda a los empleados detenidos a contactar abogados y reúne testimonios.

Prepárate con Anticipación

✔️ Mantén los formularios I-9 actualizados y organizados.
✔️ Capacita a tu equipo regularmente.
✔️ Publica contactos de emergencia y derechos en lugares visibles.

La preparación protege tu negocio y a tu equipo. Consulta con un abogado de inmigración para garantizar el cumplimiento total.

#PequeñasEmpresas #Restaurantes #DerechosLaborales #LeyDeInmigración