When ICE agents show up at your door or workplace, knowing what kind of warrant they have can protect your rights. Not all warrants are the same, and the difference matters: one gives agents the legal authority to enter your home without your permission, and the other does not.
What is a judicial warrant?
A judicial warrant is issued and signed by a judge. It is based on probable cause and authorizes law enforcement to take a specific action, such as searching a location or arresting an individual. Judicial warrants carry the weight of the court and override your right to refuse entry.
If ICE agents have a valid judicial warrant with your name and address on it, they have the legal authority to enter your home even if you do not consent.
What is an administrative warrant?
An administrative warrant is issued by ICE or another DHS agency without a judge's signature. It is an internal DHS document used to authorize detention or removal proceedings. Administrative warrants do not carry the same legal weight as judicial warrants and do not give agents the authority to enter your home without your consent.
The two most common administrative warrants are Form I-200 (Warrant for Arrest of Alien) and Form I-205 (Warrant of Removal/Deportation). If agents present one of these forms, you are not required to open your door or allow them inside.
How to tell the difference
The table below shows the key differences between judicial and administrative warrants:
| Judicial Warrant | Administrative Warrant |
|---|---|
| Signed by a judge | Signed by an ICE or DHS official |
| Based on probable cause | Based on agency determination |
| Gives agents the right to enter without consent | Does not give agents the right to enter without consent |
| Typically says "Search Warrant" or "Arrest Warrant" at the top | Typically says "Warrant for Arrest of Alien" (Form I-200) or "Warrant of Removal/Deportation" (Form I-205) |
| Includes a case number and court seal | Includes a DHS case number but no court seal |
What to do if agents come to your door
Do not open the door. Ask through the door: "Do you have a judicial warrant?" If they say yes, ask them to slide it under the door or hold it up to a window so you can read it.
Look for:
- A judge's signature
- Your name and address
- The words "Search Warrant" or "Arrest Warrant"
- A court seal or case number
If what they show you is an administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205), you do not have to let them in. Calmly tell them you do not consent to entry and that you are exercising your right to remain silent.
If they force their way in, do not physically resist. State clearly: "I do not consent to this entry or search." Document everything you can as soon as it is safe to do so.
For visual examples of what judicial and administrative warrants look like, the National Immigration Law Center provides sample documents here.
For a full breakdown of your rights when ICE approaches you at home, in public, at work, or at school, see Know your rights vs ICE enforcement in Hawaiʻi.
This resource is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you or someone you know has been detained or is facing immigration proceedings, please contact a qualified immigration attorney as soon as possible.