Immigration attorneys are raising concerns following reports of increased detentions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) involving travelers on domestic flights across multiple states.
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) said recent cases have been reported in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia, among others. The reports suggest a growing number of individuals are being stopped or detained at airports despite traveling within the United States.
Flomy Diza, an immigration attorney with Reeves Immigration Law Group, said the trend marks a notable shift from patterns observed in previous years.
“During his first year in office in President Trump’s second term, most of the individuals I assisted were lawful permanent residents who encountered issues when returning from international travel, often due to past criminal convictions,” Diza said. “Now, I am seeing consultations involving individuals detained after domestic travel, even when they have pending immigration applications or valid work authorization.”
According to AILA and Diza, some of those reportedly detained had no criminal record and possessed documents such as Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) or Advance Parole. Others had pending applications for adjustment of status or asylum but were no longer maintaining lawful nonimmigrant status.
Legal experts emphasize that possessing such documentation does not guarantee protection from immigration enforcement.
“A pending application, EAD or Advance Parole does not automatically prevent detention,” Diza said. “Each case depends on the individual’s immigration history, current status and any prior immigration or criminal issues.”
The reports highlight a lesser-known risk: that immigration enforcement actions can occur even during domestic travel. While airports within the United States are not border crossings, they remain federal security zones where immigration authorities may operate.
Diza said individuals in certain situations should exercise caution and consider seeking legal guidance before traveling domestically.
Those include people who are out of status, have pending immigration applications, have prior removal or deportation orders, or have any criminal history — even if the conviction occurred years ago. Individuals uncertain about their current immigration standing are also advised to consult an attorney.
Advocates stress that the purpose of sharing these developments is not to alarm the public but to encourage awareness and preparation.
“These reports are not intended to create fear or panic,” Diza said. “They underscore the importance of understanding your immigration situation before traveling. What may be safe for one person could present risks for another.”
Immigration attorneys recommend that individuals review their legal status and documentation carefully and seek professional advice when needed, particularly before making travel plans.
An informed decision, Diza added, may help prevent unexpected complications at airports or during routine travel within the country.
This article is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is different. Flomy Diza is an immigration attorney with Reeves Immigration Law Group and a 2025 TOFA Awards honoree in Las Vegas.
