The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun. The world’s biggest sporting event is set to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, drawing millions of soccer fans from around the globe. As excitement builds and visitors begin arriving in North America, a growing sense of concern is emerging in New York City following warnings of intensified immigration enforcement operations.
Tom Homan, President Donald Trump’s Border Czar, announced on Monday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is preparing what he described as a major enforcement operation in New York City—one unlike anything the city has seen before.
Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Homan stated, “You’re going to see more ICE agents in New York City than you’ve ever seen before, and it’s coming.” He revealed that he had already reviewed an operational plan and had previously warned New York Governor Kathy
Hochul about the upcoming actions.
The announcement comes shortly after Governor Hochul signed legislation aimed at restricting the activities of masked ICE agents operating in New York State and increasing oversight of immigration enforcement practices. Many observers view Homan’s comments as a direct response to those measures. At the same time, protests have been taking place
outside an immigrant detention facility in neighboring New Jersey, adding to the already tense atmosphere surrounding immigration policy.
Amid these developments, the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) has launched a public awareness campaign to educate both international visitors and local immigrant communities about their legal rights. Withmillions expected to travel to the United States during the World Cup, advocates say it is essential that people understand the protections
available to them regardless of their immigration status.
The organization emphasizes that everyone in the United States has certain constitutional rights. Individuals approached by ICE or law enforcement officers have the right to remain silent, the right to refuse consent to a search, and the right to speak with an attorney
before signing any documents. People are generally not required to answer questions regarding their citizenship or immigration status. They also have the right to record law enforcement activity in public spaces and to express fear of returning to their home country if applicable.
NYIC is also advising immigrants to carry photocopies of immigration documents such as green cards, work permits, or visas rather than original documents whenever possible. New York City identification cards and student IDs are considered safer forms of identification because they do not indicate immigration status or country of birth. Advocates strongly recommend avoiding the possession of fraudulent documents or any paperwork that falsely claims U.S. citizenship.
In addition, immigrants are encouraged to keep passports and original documents secured at home and to protect their mobile phones with passcodes rather than facial recognition or fingerprint unlocking features.
Special guidance has also been issued for families with children. Parents are encouraged to identify a trusted caregiver who can assume responsibility for their children in the event of an unexpected detention. Important information—including school records, medical
details, birth certificates, and emergency contact numbers—should be shared with that person in advance. Family members are also encouraged to memorize or carry essential phone numbers.
The New York Immigration Coalition recommends saving the Office for NeAmericans hotline number, 1-800-566-7636, for legal information and emergency assistance.
The World Cup is expected to bring a festive atmosphere to cities across North America. New York is home to large immigrant communities from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and many other countries, and thousands of relatives and visitors are expected to travel to the city for the tournament.
The message from immigrant advocates is straightforward: enjoy the excitement of the World Cup, but know your rights. While fans celebrate goals and victories on the field, understanding the law and being prepared can provide peace of mind off the field.
(Note: Some statements about future ICE operations are based on public remarks attributed to officials. Readers should follow official announcements from federal, state, and local authorities for the most current information.)
