Employer Resources and Best Practices for Handling Immigration Enforcement at the Jobsite

Immigration enforcement can create complex legal and operational challenges for employers, making it crucial to have clear procedures in place to handle such situations appropriately and lawfully.

We understand that these developments may cause concern within our industry, and we want you to know that we’re here to support you. To help, we’ve gathered resources and best practices on our website to address these issues and provide guidance for both employers and employees.

Staff Contact

Charlene Anthony

Senior Director of Professional Development

[email protected]

AGC Launches New Citizenship Services Application Portal

Free for Member Companies and their Employees

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) has partnered with the National Immigration Forum to provide employees of member firms and their immediate family members access to free administrative services and legal assistance if interested in completing their application for U.S. citizenship (i.e., form N-400). While there is no charge for the legal services via this portal, the USCIS application filing fees still apply. If an individual is not eligible for citizenship currently, additional immigration resources are also provided via the portal landing page.

At the Associated General Contractors of America, we care about the success and well-being of our members' employees and are happy to help them and their immediate family members pursue their citizenship goals, should they qualify and desire to do so. Becoming a naturalized citizen comes with rights and responsibilities that can help individuals support their families and have a positive impact in their communities.

Further details on the process and the following AGC member-only resources can be found here:
  • Citizenship Services Application Portal
  • Program Flyer
  • Program FAQs

The National Immigration Forum Citizenship Services program uses the Citizenshipworks online platform where individuals can complete their citizenship application. Through the New American Workforce (NAW) campaign, individuals will be connected to a vetted legal service provider who will review their application and answer any questions they have before they submit their final application to USCIS.

Best Practices

Ask for Identification and a Warrant:

  • Politely request identification from the ICE agents and inquire about the purpose of their visit.
  • If they seek access to the job site or company records, ask to see a warrant. Ensure the warrant is signed by a judge and specifies the scope of the search or seizure.

Limit Access Without a Valid Warrant:

  • Without a judicial warrant, ICE agents do not have the right to enter non-public areas of a job site. Public areas (e.g., parking lots or lobbies) are typically accessible, but private areas require authorization.

Notify Key Personnel:

  • Immediately inform the superintendent or project manager.
  • If possible, delay ICE’s entry until the company’s legal counsel or HR representative can be present, similar to procedures for an OSHA inspection.

Do Not Provide Voluntary Information:

  • Employees should not obstruct ICE agents but also should not volunteer information or documents beyond what is legally required.
  • Ensure employees know to direct all inquiries to a designated company representative trained to handle such situations.

Train Employees:

  • Conduct training for employees and site supervisors on how to respond to ICE visits professionally and within legal boundaries.
  • Reassure employees of their rights and the company’s commitment to compliance.

Legal Counsel:

  • If ICE presents a warrant, contact your legal counsel immediately to review its validity and advise on compliance.
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