Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of U.S. immigration enforcement actions, particularly as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have intensified their operations. This development has created significant anxiety among undocumented immigrants and their families, who face growing uncertainty about their future.

Under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ICE is responsible for arresting, detaining, and deporting undocumented immigrants, while CBP oversees border security and entry document verification. As enforcement policies evolve, many seek to understand which individuals face higher deportation risks and what strategies can help navigate this challenging landscape.

High-Risk Immigrant Groups

1. Immigrants with Final Removal Orders

Individuals deemed ineligible for legal residency—particularly those with final removal orders—face elevated risks. These cases often involve failed asylum applications where applicants remained in the country after their petitions were denied. Under U.S. immigration law, a final removal order leaves individuals extremely vulnerable to detention and deportation, especially under current enforcement priorities.

2. Recently Arrived Undocumented Immigrants

New arrivals (typically those present for less than two years) are particularly vulnerable due to limited legal resources and unfamiliarity with local immigration policies. Without adequate knowledge of their rights or proper channels for assistance, these immigrants often become easy targets for enforcement actions.

3. Immigrants with Criminal Records

Even minor offenses—such as DUI or petty theft—can significantly increase deportation risks under current policies. While individuals may seek rehabilitation, past convictions (especially for serious crimes) trigger rigorous legal scrutiny that often leads to removal proceedings.

4. Green Card Holders and Immigration Applicants

Lawful permanent residents with criminal convictions—even from decades prior—may face deportation. Green card holders must maintain strict legal compliance, as seemingly minor violations can jeopardize their status.

5. Asylum Seekers

Those seeking protection at the U.S.-Mexico border encounter heightened enforcement, including potential returns to Mexico under the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). This leaves asylum seekers caught between threats in their home countries and the risk of U.S. deportation.

6. Visa Overstays

Individuals who remain beyond their authorized stay (e.g., tourists who overstay visas) become priority enforcement targets. This applies even to those awaiting other immigration applications, making timely compliance critical.

7. Family Members of Undocumented Immigrants

Mixed-status families face particular challenges, as ICE may conduct enforcement actions without warning. Having legally present relatives doesn't guarantee protection against deportation.

Legal Rights and Protections

Understanding fundamental rights is crucial when encountering ICE or CBP:

• Right to remain silent: Individuals may refuse to answer questions about immigration status.
• Right to legal counsel: Always request an attorney during enforcement encounters.
• Access to support networks: Nonprofit organizations and legal service providers offer critical assistance and should be identified in advance.

Preparedness Strategies

Proactive planning can mitigate risks:

• Emergency contact lists: Establish clear communication protocols with trusted contacts and legal representatives.
• Document preservation: Safeguard copies of visas, birth certificates, and other identification materials.
• Community education: Participate in immigrant rights workshops through local organizations.
• Discretion: Avoid drawing unnecessary attention in high-enforcement areas.

Conclusion

In this era of heightened enforcement, knowledge of immigration policies and individual rights provides essential protection. By developing emergency plans, accessing legal resources, and engaging with support networks, undocumented immigrants can better safeguard their wellbeing while pursuing stability and opportunity in the United States.