The presence of immigration enforcement is not limited to the border. Certain locations across the United States have high security and federal presence, which can carry increased risk for immigrants without lawful status and, in some situations, for immigrants with temporary or pending status. Below are five places immigrants should avoid or approach with caution, and what they should know before entering them.
North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (NSLAC) provides free immigration legal aid to low-income community members living in north suburban Cook County and Lake County.
Airports
Airports are highly regulated environments where federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operate. For immigrants without lawful status, air travel, even domestic, can carry increased risk. Interactions with federal officials can lead to questioning, secondary screening, or further enforcement action.
In 2025, it was reported that TSA was sharing passenger information with ICE, including names, photos, and other travel details. In some cases, ICE may use this information to identify individuals for immigration enforcement actions at airports.
While all airports should be approached with caution, those located within 100 miles of the southern border may involve an increased presence of U.S. Border Patrol.
Before traveling, it is recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or trusted legal aid organization to understand your rights and potential risks.
Military Bases
Military bases are highly restricted areas with strict security protocols. Entry typically requires valid identification, advance authorization, and, in many cases, sponsorship by authorized personnel. Individuals entering a military installation may be subject to questioning or background checks.
Under current federal requirements, access to military installations generally requires a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or identification card, or an approved alternative form of identification. Individuals without a REAL ID may be asked to undergo additional screening and provide other documentation, such as a Permanent Resident Card (green card), Employment Authorization Document, or a foreign passport with valid immigration documentation.
Failure to provide required identification or documentation may result in denied entry and, in some circumstances, further screening by federal authorities.
Because of the heightened security and federal oversight, immigrants without lawful status should avoid entering military bases unless they have proper authorization. This includes military graduation ceremonies, family days, and other on-base events, where identification is required for entry.
Border Areas
U.S. Border Patrol operates within 100 miles of the U.S. border, a zone that includes many major cities in southern border states. Within this area, Border Patrol may operate permanent or temporary interior checkpoints, most often along major highways and long stretches of road rather than within city limits.
While checkpoints are not everywhere, drivers may encounter them unexpectedly, especially when traveling between cities or following GPS directions. These checkpoints can be located far from the actual border, and once traffic slows, it may not be possible or safe to turn around.
If you encounter a checkpoint, remember that you have the right to remain silent and to ask whether you are free to leave.
Federal detention facilities
Immigration detention centers and federal jails are high-risk environments. Individuals seeking to enter these facilities are often required to verify their identity, and interactions with federal authorities are common. As of May 2025, individuals age 18 and older must present a REAL ID–compliant, state-issued identification card or another acceptable form of identification to enter most federal facilities.
For immigrants without lawful status, entering federal detention facilities may increase the risk of immigration enforcement. If a loved one is detained, it is strongly recommended to seek legal advice before visiting or communicating with someone in detention.
Federal Buildings
Before entering any federal building, it is strongly recommended to speak with an attorney — and, when possible, have your attorney accompany you. Federal buildings include courthouses, immigration offices, and other agencies operated by the federal government.
These locations are monitored by federal authorities, and identification is often required to enter. Immigrants without lawful status should avoid visiting federal buildings unless the visit is necessary and directly relatedto their case.
Free Legal Help:
North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (NSLAC) provides free legal aid to immigrant community members living in Lake County and north suburban Cook County. If you or someone you know is in need of immigration help, please email info@nslegalaid.org or call 847-737-4042 to schedule a consultation.
NSLAC also provides legal aid in the areas of Housing and Domestic Violence.
The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed between NSLAC and the reader. NSLAC is not liable for any action taken or not taken based on this blog. Readers should contact an attorney with any questions regarding the content.