External Law Enforcement FAQ

1. What should I do if I am approached in person and asked to show proof of immigration status?

• Remain calm and courteous. Composure and respectful communication are important.
• You may politely ask: “May I please see your identification?”
• Request the name and agency affiliation, and, if possible, take a photo or request a business card.
• You may also say: “I am an international student/scholar at the University of Pennsylvania. May I contact my University’s law enforcement office?”
  • Call Penn Police (Division of Public Safety) at 215-573-3333.
  • If you cannot call, ask someone nearby to contact Penn Police on your behalf.

Tip: ISSS is available to provide guidance and support during any interaction that may involve immigration questions.

2. How can I best prepare for a potential encounter?

• Save and memorize Penn Police/DPS 24/7 number: 215-573-3333.
• When possible, travel with friends.
• Use DPS Walking Escort services in University City as needed.
• Carry photocopies of key documents (do not carry originals unless required):
  • Unexpired passport (biographical page)
  • I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1)
  • I-94 from most recent U.S. entry
  • I-797 USCIS approval notice (if applicable)
  • Green Card (if applicable)
  • OPT students: EAD card and I-20 page showing OPT authorization
• DPS can activate support services including: ISSS, Student Intervention Services (SIS), your embassy, or emergency contacts.

3. Who should I contact if I am stopped, questioned, or detained outside of Penn Police’s patrol area?

• Call Penn Police (DPS) at 215-573-3333 for support and connection to University resources.
• Inform a trusted friend or family member so someone is aware and can provide support.
• ISSS advisors are available for guidance specific to international students and scholars.

4. Does the University cooperate with other law enforcement agencies (including federal agencies)?

• The University of Pennsylvania cooperates with outside agencies as required by law, while protecting the rights and privacy of students, faculty, and staff.
• Cooperation is guided by legal obligations and University policy.
• International students and scholars with concerns about their status or rights should contact ISSS for guidance.

5. Can law enforcement access non-public areas of campus?

• External law enforcement personnel may access public areas of campus, but cannot access non-public spaces without a judicial warrant.
• If law enforcement requests access to a non-public area, remain calm, be courteous, and call Penn Police at 215-573-3333 immediately.
• Penn Police can assess warrants, obtain additional information, and connect you with campus resources.
• ISSS is available to provide guidance regarding immigration or legal concerns during such interactions.

6. If I see something concerning, who should I report it to?

• Call Penn Police at 215-573-3333 to report safety concerns, suspicious activity, or threats.
• Do not hesitate to report — you do not need to be certain; trained professionals will assess the situation.

7. Will Penn Public Safety alert community members to the presence of federal law enforcement on campus?

• The UPennAlert system is reserved for active life-safety emergencies, such as severe weather, major power outages, unexpected University closures, or ongoing active threats to physical safety.
• Presence of federal law enforcement alone does not trigger a UPennAlert.
• International students and scholars should remain aware of surroundings and contact Penn Police at 215-573-3333 if concerned.

8. Where can I find information about safety at the University of Pennsylvania?

• Visit the Division of Public Safety (DPS) website for comprehensive information about campus safety and security.
• Download the Penn Guardian mobile app for:
  • Quick access to Penn Police contact information
  • Real-time alerts and safety updates
  • Reporting concerns or requesting assistance

9. What other campus support resources are available for international students and scholars?

Penn offers a variety of resources to support the well-being, safety, and belonging of international students and scholars:

• ISSS – guidance on immigration, travel, and campus support services
• Wellness at Penn – medical care, counseling, wellbeing support, and health education
• Office of the Chaplain – spiritual care, reflection, and conversation
• University Life Departments – resource centers offering community, advocacy, and belonging
• Special Services – support for those who have experienced crime or personal trauma
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) / Penn Cobalt – mental health and wellbeing resources for employees
• Academic advisors, faculty, and staff – listening and connecting students to appropriate support

International students and scholars are encouraged to reach out whenever you need guidance, whether academic, personal, or legal.

10. What should I do if I am contacted by someone claiming to be a law enforcement agent from the U.S. or my home country?

• If unsure about the legitimacy of the contact:
  • Call Penn Police at 215-573-3333
  • Reach out to your ISSS advisor for guidance
• Be aware of potential scams; do not provide personal information, payment, or sensitive documents until legitimacy is confirmed.

Author: Dr. Rudie Altamirano, Executive Director, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) — adapted from guidance by the University of Pennsylvania Division of Public Safety (https://www.publicsafety.upenn.edu/external-law-enforcement-faq/) and tailored for the international student and scholar community.