After the 2024 Presidential election, many immigrants are worried about their status in the United States. Unfortunately, some individuals and businesses take advantage of people’s fear by making false promises and charging money for immigration services that are scams. One example of this is la tarjeta roja scams. Recently, people have been posting videos about la tarjeta roja on TikTok and other forms of social media. Some videos instruct people to call a number so they can get a free tarjeta roja but when you call the number, you are convinced to pay for false immigration services provided by unqualified people.

What Is La Tarjeta Roja? (The Red Card)

La tarjeta roja is a red card produced by an organization called the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, an organization that supports the rights of immigrants in the United States.

What Is La Tarjeta Roja For?

La tarjeta roja explains what rights you have if immigration agents stop you or come to your home. One side of the card also has instructions in English that you can show to immigration agents. These instructions explain that you do not want to speak to the agents and do not give them permission to enter your home unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. These cards are a convenient way to help immigrants remember their rights in a situation when they may be very nervous and unable to think clearly.

Do I Have to Pay for La Tarjeta Roja?

No, the Immigration Legal Resource Center provides the cards for free to some non-profit organizations and you can print all the information on the cards from their website. Having a red card in your wallet or purse does not do anything or give you any protection, it is the information on the card that is helpful so you know what to do if you are stopped by immigration. So, as long as you have that information, it does not matter if it’s on a sheet of paper, a red card, or even a screen shot on your phone.

Does La Tarjeta Roja Protect You Against Deportation?

No. La Tarjeta Roja does not provide any immigration status or protection against deportation. It is simply a reminder of what to do if immigration agents speak to you.

Does La Tarjeta Roja Give Me the Right to Work in the United States?

No. La Tarjeta Roja does not give you permission to work or remain in the United States.

What Should I do If Somebody Tries to Charge Me for La Tarjeta Roja or Tells Me the Card Gives Me Status in the United States?

You should immediately stop working with this person and do not give them any money. Then, report this person to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov/ and to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-242-5846.

How Can I Avoid Immigration Scams?

Do not get information about immigration from social media or other unqualified people. In the United States, it is illegal for people who are not licensed attorneys or BIA (Board of Immigration Appeals) accredited representatives to provide immigration advice. Everybody’s immigration situation is different. You should only accept advice and information from immigration attorneys and BIA accredited representatives who take the time to understand your case in detail and provide advice that is specific to your situation.