How to Be Prepared for ICE Detention

At times it can be easy to panic and take extreme measures when you are not prepared for the unexpected. Here are some resources to navigate your way around immigration related issues and learn where to find help in your community. 

Immigrant Advocacy Groups

 ICE Detainee Locator

Generally, it takes at least 48 hours from the moment the person was detained, sometimes longer, for your loved one to show up on the ICE electronic system. You can use the ICE Detainee Locator to check their status.

Make sure you have:

  • The detainee’s full name
  • Their date of birth
  • Their country of origin

Remember: just because you can’t locate your family member, it does not mean they are not within the United States.

If they call, make sure you ask where they are located and what their A number is. That information allows us to get in touch with them faster.

Additional Resources:

MIRA Coalition – Know Your Rights

In this page, the Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition lists resources for U.S. citizens, green card holders, students on a visa, and undocumented migrants to know their constitutional rights and advocate for themselves in emergencies. The resources are available in multiple languages, including Portuguese and Spanish.

Click Here for MIRA Ressources

Caregiver Authorization Form

The Caregiver Authorization Form is a tool to safeguard the care of your children in the case of an unforseen emergency, such as an arrest. With the form, you can authorize someone of trust to take over your children’s guard 

Click Here to Find Out More

Download “Navigating Ice Detention”

In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, a document checklist, and answers to frequently asked questions designed to empower you with the information you need. We are committed to standing by your side during this challenging period.

Click Here to Download our Guide

  • Brazilian Worker Center

The Brazilian Worker Center is a non-profit organization that capacitates immigrant workers to learn about workplace rights, immigration, and health equity. We empower immigrants with knowledge and skills to promote economic, social, political and racial justice for all.
Go to BWC website

  • Brazilian Women’s Group

The Brazilian Womens’ Group (BWG) was created in 1995 by a group of Brazilian immigrant women of various backgrounds and occupations. The mission of the Brazilian Women’s Group is to promote the empowerment of Brazilian women and the Brazilian community in the Boston area.
Go to BWG website

About Massa Viana Law

For us, this is personal. Our team consists of attorneys and professionals who are deeply connected to the immigrant experience. We share in the struggles and victories of our clients, ensuring that no one faces the immigration system alone. With a decade of dedicated service, we have earned our reputation for delivering solutions to complex immigration issues.