Navigating U.S. immigration policies can be challenging, and recent incidents highlight the importance of proper documentation. There have been cases where individuals—including immigrants, nonimmigrants, and even U.S. citizens—were detained simply because they couldn’t immediately prove their legal status.

A well-known example happened in 2011 when a German executive visiting a Mercedes branch in Alabama was stopped for a routine traffic check. At the time, Alabama had a law requiring officers to arrest individuals suspected of being undocumented. Because the executive wasn’t carrying his passport, he was detained in jail until his colleague retrieved it from his hotel. While that specific law has since been repealed, some states still have agreements with federal authorities that allow local law enforcement to check immigration status, which can lead to similar situations.

To avoid unnecessary complications, here are some simple and effective best practices for carrying identification and immigration documents:

• Carry Official Documents When Possible – If feasible, keep your original immigration documents with you, such as a visa, green card, or passport, as proof of your legal presence in the U.S.
• Keep a Copy Handy – A clear copy (printed or digital) can be a helpful backup if carrying the original document isn’t practical. Some valuable documents to have copies of include:
• A picture or scanned copy of your visa or green card
• I-797 approval notices
• A copy of your passport’s identification page
• A state-issued ID or driver’s license
• Be Aware of Local Laws – Some states work with federal immigration authorities, giving local law enforcement more power to check immigration status. Knowing the laws in your state can help you be prepared.
• Know Your Rights – If you are detained or questioned about your immigration status, you can remain silent and ask for legal representation. If this happens, contacting an immigration attorney as soon as possible can help resolve the situation quickly.

While carrying identification won’t prevent an officer from stopping you, it can make the process much smoother and significantly reduce the risk of detention.