What To Do If Federal Immigration Agents Visit Your Facility: A GUIDE
On Monday, September 8, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security announced Operation Midway Blitz, an operation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement sending federal agents to Chicago and targeting the city’s undocumented immigrant population. While the announcement claims the effort will be specifically aimed at those undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes, there is concern about the casting of an even broader net than promised considering such vague language.
Below is our Quick Guide on what to do should Federal Immigration Agents visit your facility:
Your Facility should have a Code team:
- Employees should not answer any questions or directions and should refer agents to the Code team – Refer to action tree created by the Code team
- Agents cannot enter private areas until the Code team determines there is a valid judicial warrant
- If agents attempt to enter a private area, advise them they do not have permission and refer them to the Code team
- Agents can be in public areas and can question visitors
- Employees can advise visitors they have the right to remain silent
Be Aware! Agents can look at anything in “plain view”, this includes:
- Computer screens
- Paperwork on desks
- Written information on boards
Agents can also use anything they overhear without assistance. Patient information must be protected!
The Do’s & Don’ts
- DO contact the Code team
- DO decline to answer any questions
- DO keep patient information safe
- DO make available “Know Your Rights” pamphlets in waiting rooms
- DO be observant
- DO contact your legal advisors with any questions or concerns
- DO advise visitors they have the right to remain silent
- DO record interactions with agents
- DO NOT tell visitors to remain silent and not to answer
- DO NOT lie to agents
- DO NOT hide or conceal any person
- DO NOT give legal advice to any patients or families
Don’t be caught off guard. A visit from ICE can be nerve wracking. It is important to stay calm and have a plan and for staff to be familiar with it.
For further information contact: