1. Myth
“It’s not safe to apply for papers because ICE will be notified.”
2. What People Believe
In many Texas Hispanic communities, this fear feels very real.
You may have heard someone at church say, “Don’t file anything — that’s how ICE finds you.” A coworker in construction might share a story about someone who “applied and then got picked up.” A notario may warn that submitting forms puts you “on a list.”
Living in Texas, where immigration enforcement feels visible — from border news to traffic stops — it’s easy to believe that filing for papeles could bring danger to your door.
If you’re in a mixed-status marriage, with a U.S. citizen spouse and young kids, the fear is even stronger. You don’t want to risk your familia. You don’t want to make a mistake that separates you from your children.
So the question becomes: will applying for adjustment of status alert ICE?
3. The Truth in Texas
Adjustment of Status is a process handled by USCIS — a separate federal agency from ICE.
When someone applies for adjustment of status through a qualifying U.S. citizen spouse, the case is reviewed by USCIS officers. It is not automatically sent to ICE simply because you filed.
USCIS processes applications, schedules biometrics appointments, and conducts interviews. ICE is a separate enforcement agency. Filing an application does not trigger an automatic notification to ICE.
That said, every case is unique. Past deportation orders, criminal history, or prior immigration issues can affect how a case is handled. But simply submitting an adjustment application does not automatically alert ICE under normal procedures.
For many families in Texas, Adjustment of Status is the legal path designed specifically to help spouses stay together.
4. Why This Myth Exists
This myth exists because:
- People confuse USCIS and ICE.
- Old policies from years ago are repeated as if they’re current.
- Social media spreads fear faster than facts.
- Notarios sometimes give incorrect advice.
- Enforcement is highly visible in Texas, which increases miedo.
When people see ICE activity in their city, they assume every immigration office works the same way. But they do not.
5. What This Means for You
If you are married to a U.S. citizen and wondering whether filing will put you in danger, it’s important to understand the real process — not just community rumors.
You deserve clear information, not fear-based advice.
Your goal is simple: stability, legal status, and keeping your familia together. Understanding how adjustment of status works helps you make decisions from a place of confianza instead of panic.
Filing is not the same as turning yourself in. It is a formal request for lawful status through an established legal process.
6. Simple Next Steps
- Gather copies of your marriage certificate and proof of your relationship.
- Collect records of any prior immigration history.
- Avoid relying on notarios or social media advice.
- Speak privately with a qualified immigration professional before filing.
- Ask specific questions about your personal history so you understand your risks clearly.
7. Closing Reassurance
It’s normal to feel scared. Many Texas families carry stories of fear and uncertainty. But fear should not be the only voice guiding your future.
Adjustment of Status exists so families can stay together. With the right information, you can move forward carefully, thoughtfully, and with dignity.
Your familia deserves stability. And you deserve answers based on truth — not rumors.