Enforcement at the Airport
Learn about your rights when encountering law enforcement at the airport.
Issue:
Civil Liberties
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Overview
Noncitizens who do not currently have legal status should consider the risks of flying, including on domestic flights within the US. Recent reporting suggests increased risks, including that TSA now provides lists to ICE of travelers who will be coming through airports, breaking from TSA's past practice.
At the border, you are likely to encounter Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, and you may encounter Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents. HSI is part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Know your rights in these scenarios.
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More Resources
News & Commentary
Apr 2025
Privacy & Technology
Can Border Agents Search Your Electronic Devices? It’s Complicated.
We’ve been getting a lot of questions about when border agents can legally conduct searches of travelers’ electronic devices at international airports and other ports of entry. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple.
Explore news & commentary
News & Commentary
Apr 2025
Privacy & Technology
Can Border Agents Search Your Electronic Devices? It’s Complicated.
We’ve been getting a lot of questions about when border agents can legally conduct searches of travelers’ electronic devices at international airports and other ports of entry. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple.
