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.

11. I’ve seen ICE agents at airports—should I be worried?

The presence of ICE agents at some airports right now is primarily to support operations during TSA staffing shortages. It does not mean enforcement action is being taken against travelers. For any concerns about travel or re-entry, contact ISSS before your trip.

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.