What You Need to Know About Florida Immigration Law

If you or a loved one needs legal help in regards to Florida immigration law, there are a few things you need to know. Learn here.

About 21% of Florida’s population was born outside the United States. And it’s easy to see why the Sunshine State has become a favorite.

Immigrants are drawn there because it offers so many opportunities for growth and development. Let’s not forget its most popular features: beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, and diverse culture that offers something for everyone. The truth is, Florida has always been a famous destination, but it has cemented its image as an especially welcoming state in recent years.

So what does that mean for you as an immigrant?

It means that as long as you can prove your worthiness to live here, you’ll be able to get started on your life in America sooner rather than later. However, this is unique to documented residents. If you are undocumented, the Florida immigration laws will be more difficult to navigate.

Keep reading to learn more about immigrating to Florida and what you can expect if you decide to make this state your home.

Florida Immigration Laws

The state of Florida does not welcome illegal immigrants, and the laws reflect that. It’s crucial that you are in Florida legally and have the necessary approvals before settling down.

The primary laws concerning immigration prevents unauthorized employment in the US as well as harboring or shielding from detection unauthorized workers (i.e., hiring undocumented workers). Besides this, illegal immigrants risk being deported if they’re caught.

Recent Additions to the Florida Immigration Laws

You may have heard that the state of Florida recently passed new immigration laws. These changes make it harder for undocumented immigrants to live and work in the state.

In June 2022, Gov. Ron DeSantis confirmed the adjustments to these laws. Here are the most significant changes:

In terms of employment, companies are banned from working with companies that help illegal immigrants get into Florida. Airlines and buses can still transport undocumented immigrants but may lose state contracts for doing so. Additionally, local governments can share the status of immigrants in their custody with state agencies if they wish.

Deportation

Deportation is the process of removing a non-citizen from the United States. There are several reasons why this may happen.

First, local or federal law enforcement can arrest individuals suspected of entering the U.S. illegally and send them to a detention center. From there, the court puts them through the process of deportation.

You will also see convicted criminals getting deported too. The immigrant’s undocumented status is usually discovered during court proceedings. Because of this, a judge will most likely decide to send the immigrant back to their home country, as that is what the law dictates.

Visa holders who have overstayed their time in the U.S. can also face deportation. Seeing that the visa has expired, that person is now “undocumented.” As such, they are subject to the same consequences as someone who never had a visa to begin with.

Finally, individuals who applied for asylum but have been denied can also be deported. This is only true if your legal residency status expires before USCIS has reviewed your asylum application.

The ICE and Your Rights

ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is the agency that enforces immigration laws in the United States. This includes arresting individuals who are undocumented and deporting them back to their home country.

The sad reality is that ICE officers have lots of power and very little compassion for undocumented immigrants. Remember: ICE’s job is to detain and deport as many people as they can. And if they arrest you, your life will never be the same.

It is important that you understand your rights if ICE stops you. This knowledge may prevent you from making a mistake that could cost you residency status.

The Right to Silence

You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions or say anything about where you were born or how long you’ve been in the U.S.

When interacting with an ICE officer, be sure not to tell any lies. Officers can use anything you say to incriminate you in court.

Denying Entry to Your Home

You may decline to open the door or speak with ICE agents at your front doorstep if they don’t have a warrant. Don’t be impolite about it either; simply let them know you’re not interested in having a conversation right now.

There are offers who won’t care about your denial and enter anyway. They’re not supposed to do this. However, if it happens, say: I do not consent to your search.

From this point, the officers might carry on with their search, but they will do it unlawfully. As such, a judge may not take the evidence they find into consideration in a court case.

Legal Advice

If arrested: Say nothing and ask for a lawyer immediately! Do not make any explanations or excuses, do not sign anything (even if it seems like it will help), and do not give away any personal information.

Why an Immigration Lawyer Is Necessary

Your immigration status is extremely important. If you are in the United States illegally, even a minor criminal charge can result in deportation. An immigration attorney will be familiar with all aspects of U.S. law and will advise you on what to do if officers arrest you.

Help With Visa Applications

Immigration lawyers also handle applications for visas, green cards, or citizenship for their clients. They know how to fill out the paperwork correctly and answer questions you have about your status.

Speak to a Lawyer Who Cares About Your Case

The immigration process isn’t easy. It’s complex, and it can be overwhelming. You don’t have to do this alone; a lawyer can help you navigate the Florida immigration laws, find out what your options are, and handle the paperwork for you.

Book a consultation with one of our top attorneys to get advice on your situation. Our Pablo G. Martinez Law Firm are here to help you, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.