As of July 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has begun sending administrative subpoenas (subpoenas) to landlords to turn over tenant data: leases, applications, IDs, and names of cohabitants These subpoenas, issued by the USCIS anti-fraud unit, are not signed by a judge, but threaten penalties if not complied with.
Lawyers in Atlanta and Massachusetts have denounced this new approach: attorney Eric Teusink confirmed receiving several subpoenas, and Jordana Roubicek Greenman reported calls and messages to landlords asking for tenant information.
Why is it a concern?
The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) and civil rights advocates warn that these applications are not binding without a court order.
But landlords may feel compelled by intimidation.
These subpoenas are not signed by a judge
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Bill Holston of the Dallas-based Eviction Defense Center points out that this will exacerbate national origin discrimination.
Leading some landlords to turn away tenants or charge additional fees.
In addition, it warns that the DHS pressure seeks to create “a climate of fear” that encourages self-deportation of undocumented migrants.
Landlords and tenants
Landlords: Review in detail any subpoena, consult an attorney and do not share data without a court order.
Tenants: They are protected by privacy and anti-discrimination rights.
They should document any request and seek legal advice or file a complaint with the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union).
Support groups: Community organizations offer guidance to protect vulnerable tenants from DHS pressure.
By way of conclusion
This maneuver by DHS, without judicial backing, represents a real threat to tenants’ right to privacy and facilitates discriminatory practices.
Landlords and tenants should know their rights and seek legal advice to avoid abuse and protect migrant communities.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
