The New Reality of Carrying Papers and What Every Immigrant Must Know

The Resurgence of “Carry Your Papers” and Its Impact on Immigrant Communities

In recent months, the phrase “carry your papers” has made a troubling return to the national conversation, reigniting concerns among Latino and immigrant communities. City Councilman Mario Trujillo from Downey, California, directly addressed the issue, stating, “Let’s just say what it is. This is racial discrimination.” His words reflect a growing unease as an old law from the 1950s, once dormant, resurfaces under the Trump administration's strict immigration policies.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently reminded individuals to “always carry your alien registration documentation.” While this may sound like a new rule, it actually stems from the Immigration and Nationality Act, which has required legal immigrants and foreign visitors over the age of 18 to carry their green card or visa at all times. For many years, this requirement was more of a formality than a daily concern. However, the current enforcement climate has transformed it into a serious legal risk.

Michelle Lapointe, legal director at the American Immigration Council, emphasizes that “we have never been a nation where you’re required to provide proof of citizenship on request to law enforcement.” That changed with the Trump administration’s hard-line approach. Now, being unprepared—even for a quick trip to the store—can result in a misdemeanor, a $100 fine, or even up to 30 days in jail.

For many, the stakes are high. Green cards and visas are not just pieces of paper; they are valuable, hard-earned documents that can be expensive and time-consuming to replace. If someone loses their green card, they must submit Form I-90 online or by mail, pay a non-refundable fee, and wait weeks for a replacement. Even a notice of receipt, which can serve as temporary documentation, may not be enough if stopped by ICE or local police.

A Growing Concern for All Americans

The impact of this policy extends beyond immigrants. Fernando Garcia, executive director of the Border Network for Human Rights, warns, “How quickly are we becoming a ‘show me your papers’ state?” He highlights that American citizens, especially those of Latino and Central American descent, are increasingly caught in the crosshairs. There have been numerous reports of U.S. citizens being detained or even deported due to errors in identification.

An Axios review found several cases where U.S. citizens, often Latinos, were arrested or mistakenly deported. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) advises immigrants 18 and older to always carry their documents. If stopped and unable to produce them, the ACLU recommends saying, “I want to remain silent,” or requesting to speak to a lawyer before answering any questions. Everyone, regardless of status, has the right to remain silent and avoid answering questions about their immigration status.

What to Do When ICE Shows Up

If ICE agents come to your door, you do not have to answer if they only present an ICE form without a warrant signed by a judge. For American citizens concerned about being profiled, lawyers recommend carrying a U.S. passport card or a photocopy of a passport to prove citizenship.

As of May 7, 2025, REAL ID-compliant licenses or IDs will be required for federal buildings and air travel. Having proper identification on hand is essential for everyone.

Steps to Take if Documents Are Lost or Stolen

If an immigrant loses or has their documents stolen, it is crucial to act quickly. Submitting Form I-90 to replace a green card is the first step. If proof of status is needed while waiting for a replacement, one can request an ADIT stamp from USCIS. It is important to note that the fee is non-refundable, and government-issued identification along with evidence of any mistake may be required.

Know Your Rights and Prepare

Most importantly, knowing your rights and having a plan is essential. The ACLU and immigrant advocacy groups recommend memorizing emergency contacts, authorizing someone to make decisions for your children if necessary, and understanding how to locate a detained loved one using ICE’s online locator. If stopped, remain calm, keep hands visible, and avoid arguing or resisting. Instead, calmly assert your rights and ask to speak to a lawyer.

While the law itself has not changed, the environment has. Senator Alex Padilla emphasized that “reports of American citizens detained by ICE purely based on their race are wholly unacceptable and run afoul of our Fourth Amendment rights.” The best defense against these challenges is knowledge, preparation, and unity. Everyone deserves to feel safe, regardless of where they were born.