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Immigration Enforcement Updates: What Employers and Workers Need to Know.

  • Jul 17, 2025
  • 2 min read


In recent months, there have been significant changes to U.S. immigration policies, including those affecting individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS). These changes have had a direct impact on businesses and workers alike. Below is an overview of the most important updates, as well as guidance on how to stay compliant and informed.


Overview of Recent Immigration Enforcement Changes


  • Increased Enforcement: Executive orders have intensified immigration enforcement, with a particular focus on undocumented immigrants with criminal records.

  • Worksite Visits: ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection) have increased unannounced visits to worksites, especially those located near border regions.

  • Sensitive Locations Policy Ended: DHS has ended previous policies that limited ICE activity at sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.


What Employers Should Do: Responsibilities & Best Practices


✅ Be Prepared:Create a response plan and assign a point of contact to speak with ICE agents in case of a visit.


Know Your Rights on Warrants:

  • ICE may enter public areas without a warrant.

  • A judicial warrant signed by a judge is required for access to private spaces.


Train Your Team:Ensure staff know their rights, including the right to remain silent and to not flee the scene during an encounter.

Keep Records Accessible:Workers should carry or have quick access to valid immigration documents (or copies/photos).


I-9 Compliance & SSA “No-Match” Letters


  • Maintain updated and accurate I-9 forms for all employees.

  • Conduct regular internal I-9 audits to ensure compliance.

  • If you receive a Social Security Administration “no-match” letter, do not take immediate disciplinary action. Follow SSA procedures to resolve any discrepancies.


What to Do During an ICE Raid


  • Stay Calm: Request to see a signed judicial warrant.

  • Restrict Access: Do not allow agents to enter beyond the area specified in the warrant.

  • Document Everything: Record the number of agents, their behavior, and any items taken.

  • Protect Your Workers: Employees should not answer questions about immigration status or place of birth.


After a Raid: Immediate Steps for Employers


  • Thoroughly document the event.

  • Ensure that any arrested worker receives owed wages.

  • Contact the worker’s legal representative and notify their family.


Worker Rights During ICE Encounters


  • Remain Silent: Workers have the right not to speak to agents or answer questions.

  • Legal Representation: Everyone has the right to consult an attorney.

  • Home Entry Requires a Warrant: ICE cannot enter a private home without a signed judicial warrant.

  • Do Not Run: Stay calm, don’t flee, and do not present false documents.


Staying Informed and Prepared

At AFIA, we remain committed to informing and protecting our community. If you have questions or need support regarding these changes, feel free to reach out to us.

 
 
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