Yisroel R.

Askanim involved with immigration are warning travelers with uncertain or unclear immigration status not to assume that flying within the United States will automatically be without a problem.

The warning comes amid increased immigration enforcement across the country in recent months, with federal authorities stepping up enforcement efforts and bringing greater attention to the risks facing those whose immigration status may not be fully in order.

The warning is especially relevant for people who entered the country legally but have since overstayed, as well as those waiting on extensions, status changes, adjustment applications, or other immigration filings. Askanim say anyone in these situations should have their specific case reviewed before heading to the airport.

One of the biggest points of confusion, is the belief that once paperwork has been filed with immigration authorities, everything is automatically in order until a decision is made. That is not always the case. A pending application, receipt notice, or other paperwork can mean different things depending on the individual situation.

At the same time, askanim stress that having a pending immigration matter does not automatically mean someone is unlawfully present or facing arrest. Many people remain in valid status while applications are being processed. The point of the warning, is that people should know exactly where they stand instead of relying on assumptions.

The issue is especially relevant for those traveling for simchos, Yom Tov, vacations, medical appointments and family visits. Because a flight from one U.S. state to another may feel routine, some travelers may not think about immigration questions the same way they would before an international trip.

Askanim are therefore urging anyone with an expired visa or ESTA, a pending immigration process, or any uncertainty about their current status to speak with a qualified immigration attorney or trusted askan before booking or taking a flight. Even if someone has traveled previously without any issues, that should not be taken as a guarantee that the next trip will go the same way, as circumstances and enforcement can change from case to case.

The bottom line, askanim say, is simple: if there is any question about your immigration status, find out the answer before you travel, not when you are already standing in the airport.