Archive · 27 Dec 2025
US Citizens Carry Passports Amid ICE Raids
Many people in the U.S. are now carrying their passports everywhere they go.
This is because Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been doing raids in cities, and some American citizens have been detained by mistake.
People, especially those who are Latino or Somali American, are scared that they might be taken into custody if they can't prove they are citizens.
Even though there is no law saying you have to carry a passport, many people feel safer having it with them.
Experts say that if you are stopped by ICE, you don't have to answer their questions or show them your papers, but some people still choose to carry their passports just in case.
At least 170 American citizens have been detained by ICE during raids, leading to a culture of fear.
Many people of color, including Latino and Somali Americans, are carrying passports to prove their citizenship.
There is no legal requirement for U.S. citizens to carry identification, but many choose to do so for safety.
ICE raids are described as highly targeted by the Department of Homeland Security, but experts advise caution.
Legal experts recommend carrying a passport but note that individuals do not have to answer ICE questions or provide proof of citizenship.
- Who
- U.S. citizens, particularly people of color, including Latino and Somali Americans
- What
- Carrying passports and other identification due to fear of ICE raids and detentions
- When
- Ongoing, with increased reports during recent ICE raids
- Where
- Across American cities, including New Orleans and Minnesota
- Why
- Fear of being mistakenly detained by ICE and the need to prove citizenship
- Number of Detained Citizens
- 170
- Primary Affected Groups
- People of color, including Latino and Somali Americans
- Legal Requirement for Carrying Passport
- No legal requirement
- ICE Raid Targets
- Immigrant sweeps, highly targeted according to DHS
- Expert Advice on ICE Stops
- No obligation to answer questions or provide citizenship proof