Collaboration between the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has intensified at all airports in the country, facilitating the location and detention of immigrants with pending immigration processes or alleged administrative violations, according to information published by CBS News and supported by documents obtained by American Oversight.

Data exchange between ICE and TSA

According to the aforementioned media, ICE sources indicated that the TSA now shares more information about travelers who are not US citizens. This includes people without criminal records, but who may have incurred civil violations of immigration laws, such as overstaying their visa.

The sources explained that this data allows agents to more easily identify people subject to deportation procedures. Even those who have immigration applications or work permits in process could face reviews if they do not have permanent legal status.

In May 2025, both agencies signed an agreement to strengthen information sharing, according to a memo released by the organization American Oversight, representing a major change from previous practices.

Change surveillance strategy

According to sources consulted by CBS News, airports have become strategic points for making arrests, since they allow agents to operate in controlled environments and with prior information about passengers.

One of the sources indicated that this type of operation also responds to the objective of increasing the number of daily arrests promoted by the administration of President Donald Trump.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the tightening of immigration policy through a statement sent to the aforementioned media.

"DHS reversed the Biden-era policy that allowed undocumented immigrants to travel across the country. Under President Trump, this administration is working to ensure that undocumented immigrants cannot fly, except to voluntarily deport themselves," the agency said.

Immigration specialists consulted by the same media recommend people with pending immigration processes seek legal advice before making domestic trips, since the new cooperation scheme between ICE and TSA expands the scope of immigration verifications within US airports.

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