Living in the United States as a non-citizen — whether with your family or on your own — can be overwhelming, especially with the frequently changing immigration laws. Whether you have legal status or are undocumented, it is important to stay two steps ahead. Having a clear plan in place and keeping your documents organized can protect you and your loved ones in the event of a legal emergency, detention, or deportation.
Below, we outline how to build your immigrant preparedness toolkit — a personal plan and collection of essential documents that can help protect your family, health, and legal rights in California.
What Documents Should I Have on Standby?
California has strong protections for immigrants. However, encounters with ICE or other enforcement agencies can happen at any time, often without warning. Keeping important documents accessible and securely stored — both physically and digitally — is one of the best ways to be prepared.
We recommend compiling a folder with copies of the following:
Proof of identity and status
- Passport from your home country (even if expired)
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Visa paperwork and I-94 records
- Consular ID
- California state-issued ID or driver’s license, if available
Immigration documents
- Copies of pending immigration applications (asylum, adjustment of status, etc.), and receipt notices issued by USCIS (Form I-797 Notices of Action)
- Notices to Appear (NTA) and upcoming court hearing notice
Legal Contacts
- Name and phone number of your immigration attorney
- Completed G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney)
- Signed and notarized Power of Attorney, authorizing someone to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf if you are detained or deported
Family Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Children’s birth certificates (especially if they are U.S. citizens)
- Guardianship papers or notarized caregiver affidavits (explained further below)
Financial and Property Documents
- Bank account information and login credentials
- Lease or mortgage agreement
- Car title or registration
- Utility bills or proof of residence
Emergency Contact List
- Family and friends
- Nannies, schools, and other childcare providers
- Medical providers
- Your immigration lawyer
- Other trusted individuals, including employers or coworkers
Planning for Childcare in Case of Detention or Deportation
If you are a parent or caregiver, it is very important to prepare for your child’s care in the event that you are detained or deported. California allows you to plan for temporary custody of your child without losing your legal rights as a parent:
- Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit. This document allows a non-parent adult to enroll your child in school and make certain medical decisions. It does not require court approval and is often used for short-term care.
- Temporary Guardianship Authorization. This letter gives a chosen adult the legal authority to take care of your child and make educational, medical, and other decisions. We recommend having this letter notarized and reviewed by a lawyer.
- Standby Guardianship. If you want a longer-term arrangement, you have the option to file a petition in California probate court for temporary guardianship.
- School Contacts and Access. Make sure the chosen caregiver is listed on school emergency contact forms and has access to school portals, medical records, and any IEPs or 504 plans, if applicable.
- Child’s Passport and Citizenship Documentation. Make sure your child’s passport, birth certificate, and Social Security card are ready. This is important if your child is a U.S. citizen. These documents should be available for caregivers.
Remember that U.S. citizen minors can remain in the U.S. They cannot be deported with a parent unless you ask for it. Planning ahead makes sure your children can continue school, access healthcare, and remain in safe care during any legal process.
Planning for Medical Care
Emergencies can happen at any time, and it is crucial to have a plan in place for both you and your family’s care. We recommend preparing the following:
- Medical power of attorney. This document names someone who can make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to.
- HIPAA authorization. This gives certain trusted individuals access to your medical records.
- List of medications and doctors. Keep a list of medications, allergies, and medical conditions for each family member, along with the contact information for your primary care providers and any specialists.
- Vaccination records. Especially for children, keep immunizations up to date for schools and doctors.
- Emergency consent for minors’ medical treatment. Caregivers should have written permission to help your children get medical care. Include insurance information and medical cards, if applicable.
Knowing Your Rights
Understanding your legal rights is essential, especially during encounters with immigration authorities. The following rights apply regardless of your status:
- Right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status, where you were born, or how you entered the U.S. You can say, “I have the right to remain silent and want to speak to an attorney.”
- Right to a warrant. If ICE comes to your home, you may ask the agent if they have a warrant to enter and search your home. You can say, “I do not consent to a search.”
- Right to refuse to sign without legal advice. If an ICE agent asks you to sign any documents, you have the right to say no until you speak with a lawyer. Do not sign any forms or paperwork without legal advice. You can say, “I will not sign anything without talking to my attorney.” Memorize or carry contact information for your immigration lawyer and a trusted person who can help you.
Contact an Immigration Law Firm (Los Angeles and San Francisco) Today
At Reeves Immigration Law Group, we take pride in our role in doing everything we can to grant each individual a successful entry and stay in the United States. If you are feeling uncertain about your future in the U.S., our immigration lawyers in Los Angeles and San Francisco can help you build an immigrant preparedness toolkit. We offer personalized guidance at any time to offer some peace of mind.
Fill out our contact form today to discuss your immigration needs with an experienced immigration attorney. Our team of California immigration lawyers are standing by to help.
