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Fact check: Can a passport card be used as proof of citizenship for ICE?

Checked on September 10, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The question of whether a passport card can be used as proof of citizenship for ICE has yielded mixed results from the analyses provided. Some sources suggest that a passport card may be used as proof of citizenship, as it is mentioned that U.S. citizens, including those of Asian American descent, are carrying their U.S. passport cards as a precautionary measure to protect themselves from being wrongfully targeted by ICE [1]. Additionally, one source explicitly states that a U.S. passport or passport card can be carried as proof of citizenship to help prevent wrongful detention by ICE [2]. However, other sources do not specifically address the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship for ICE, instead providing information on the requirements for obtaining a passport and the types of documents that can be used as proof of citizenship [3], or discussing changes to passport and Social Security rules in relation to birthright citizenship [4]. It is also noted that a passport card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, but its use is limited to land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and some Caribbean countries [5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

  • The analyses provided do not offer a clear, unified stance on the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship for ICE, highlighting the need for further clarification on this issue [6] [3] [7].
  • Alternative viewpoints suggest that ICE can ask for identification documents, such as a passport, driver's license, or any government-issued ID, but do not specify whether a passport card is acceptable [7].
  • Additional context is needed to understand the specific requirements and regulations surrounding the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship for ICE, as some sources list acceptable documents for Form I-9, including a U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card, but do not explicitly state its use for ICE purposes [8].
  • Different stakeholders may have varying opinions on the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship for ICE, including immigration attorneys, ICE officials, and U.S. citizens, which could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue [6] [4] [9].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading or incomplete, as it does not account for the varying opinions and lack of clear guidance on the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship for ICE [6] [3] [7]. ICE and U.S. citizens may benefit from a clearer understanding of the regulations surrounding the use of a passport card as proof of citizenship, as it could help prevent wrongful detention and provide a sense of security for U.S. citizens [1] [2]. On the other hand, immigration attorneys and advocacy groups may benefit from the current lack of clarity, as it could lead to increased demand for their services and support [4] [9]. Ultimately, a more comprehensive and unified understanding of the issue is necessary to provide accurate information and guidance to U.S. citizens [2] [8].

Want to dive deeper?
What documents are accepted by ICE as proof of citizenship?
Can a passport card be used for domestic air travel?
What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card for US citizens?
How does ICE verify citizenship during encounters?
Are there any specific ICE policies regarding passport cards as proof of citizenship?