Preparedness Checklist

This guide is about minimizing risk going forward — it is important that you keep printed and digital copies of all the documents and items listed below. Download the full checklist here.

Important Information

• Know your A # __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ (Nine digit number that USCIS assigns immigrants).
• List your emergency contacts:
  • Emergency Contact #1: _______________________
  • Emergency Contact #2: _______________________
    • Contact your child’s school and let them know your emergency contact is allowed to pick them up.
• Keep a list of any medications, medical conditions, and/or allergies.
• List your Doctor’s name and contact (for whole family).

Documents

• Residence documents: Documents that demonstrate your residence in the United States, regardless of immigration status. These can be pay stubs, rent payments, photos, etc.
• Ownership documents: Title for property or rental agreement, car registrations, or other important ownership documents.
• Passports, Birth Certificates, Social Security, and Photo ID: All forms of identification from the U.S and from home country. If you have children, attach copies of their identification as well.
• Validation documents: Letters of recommendation and character witness statements from employers, faith leaders, friends and family. academic transcripts, certificates of any accomplishments or awards.
• Immigration Papers: Every legal document you have received from USCIS or your assigned court, as well as the documents you have filed in your case. (I-589 asylum applications, Notices to Appear, Orders of Removal, and Motions to Change Address or Venue.) If you have a lawyer, ask them for a copy of every document.
• Marriage License: If you are married, in a domestic partnership, attach copies of any applicable license or proof.

Digital Safety

This guide is about minimizing risk going forward — taking small, practical steps to make it harder for others to access your personal information. Download the full checklist here.

Organizations & Resources

Visit these organizations for additional material on how to deal with ICE and other helpful resources:

• New York City Council – Know Your Rights
• Make the Road NY
  • Deportation Defense Guide
  • Family Preparedness Guide
• Brooklyn Defender Services and ACLU
• The Legal Aid Society
  • Advance Planning for Non-Citizen Parents
• DOE NYC Public Schools – guidance for Principals
• CUNY Citizenship Now!
• HandsUnite - accessible resources for immigrants with disabilities:
  • Know Your Rights Digital Card (visual and accessible format with Deaf specific rights)
  • Digital Communition Board for Interactions with ICE/Police (immigrant-focused)
  • Digital Communication Board for Traffic Stops (for interactions when pulled over by law enforcement)