Published on March 25, 2026
As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel begin their deployment at major U.S. airports due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, many Canadians traveling to the United States are questioning the protocols that apply to them. With heightened security measures in place, the presence of ICE officers has raised concerns about how travelers can navigate their experiences at airports.
A prominent immigration lawyer has offered insights into whether Canadians can request to deal with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel instead of ICE officials when arriving at U.S. airports. The legal expert emphasizes the importance of understanding the roles of both agencies. While TSA is responsible for securing the nation’s transportation systems, ICE’s role focuses on immigration enforcement and customs regulations.
According to the lawyer, the answer is not as straightforward as one might hope. Canadians, like all foreign nationals arriving in the U.S., must comply with the protocols established . However, the lawyer suggests that travelers can indeed express their preference to interact with TSA representatives instead, especially if they feel uncomfortable with the presence of ICE officials.
When approaching airport security, the lawyer advises Canadians to remain calm and respectful. If approached , travelers should clearly and politely communicate their situation. They can ask to speak with TSA agents when discussing issues related to security screening, while understanding that ICE still retains its role in immigration checks.
Furthermore, the lawyer reminds travelers to keep all necessary documentation, such as passports and any relevant visas, readily accessible. This preparation can mitigate potential complications when encountering ICE at the airport.
Travelers are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights, particularly regarding interactions with ICE. Knowing these rights can empower Canadians to navigate the airport experience more smoothly, ensuring they are treated fairly under U.S. law.
In summary, while Canadians cannot outright refuse to interact with ICE when arriving at U.S. airports, they have the option to request assistance from TSA. Maintaining composure and being well-prepared are essential for smoother travel during these uncertain times marked security and immigration oversight.