Welcome
Student Legal Service (SLS) offers advice and legal representation to eligible students at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. Our services are available to all UMN-TC students paying the Student Services Fee. Our intake staff can help you determine your eligibility if you're unsure.
We are in the process of providing services related to immigration for students systemwide. If your inquiry is related to immigration or visas, please reach out. For more information, see Federal Immigration Policies — Support and Resources.
Immigration & ICE
The federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States is Immigration and Customs Enforcement, otherwise known as ICE.
Your rights related to ICE encounters may differ depending on the setting and situation.
If you are approached by an ICE agent in public, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer questions about your immigration or citizenship status. You do not have to agree to a search of your person or belongings. You may ask the agent or officer, “Am I free to go?” If they say yes, you may walk away. If they say no, you may say, “I want to speak to a lawyer.”
If ICE approaches you where you live, you may keep the door closed and remain silent. ICE may only enter your home with a valid warrant signed by a judge. You may ask to see the warrant by instructing the officers to hold it up to a window or slide it under your door. If ICE does not have a warrant signed by a judge, you may ask them to leave.
General Considerations for Noncitizen Students
If you have valid immigration documents, you should carry them with you at all times (this includes, but is not limited to; your green card; your EAD card; your I-797 approval notice; your I-20 (F student status); your DS-2019 (J student status); etc. Keep copies of these documents in a safe place.
Plan ahead in the event you may be detained. SLS can help you prepare a plan based on your specific situation.
Additionally, the University has shared this guidance with students, faculty, and staff.
Federal Cannabis Guidelines
More information coming soon.
Landlord/Tenant
More information coming soon.