TEANECK, NJ — Agudath Israel of America and the Aleph Institute are warning non-U.S. citizens to be especially careful about voting eligibility amid reports of people being detained at U.S. airports and placed in immigration detention over allegations of unlawful voting.

Noncitizens, including green card holders and visa holders, cannot vote in federal elections, even if they are registered or receive a ballot in the mail.

The groups warn that the mistake can be easy to make. People may become registered to vote while applying for a driver's license and later receive a ballot despite being ineligible. Being registered or receiving a ballot does not establish eligibility, and poll workers may not stop someone from making the mistake.

“We want to make sure everyone in our community understands the serious consequences that voting when ineligible can have. If you are not a U.S. citizen, do not assume that being registered or receiving a ballot means you are eligible to vote,” said Rabbi Avi Schnall, COO of Agudath Israel of America.

Voting when legally ineligible can lead to criminal charges or conviction, detention and possible deportation, with potentially devastating consequences for a person's immigration status.

“Even an unintentional mistake can have serious consequences for a person’s immigration status,” said Rabbi Yossi Grossbaum, Aleph’s director of immigration affairs. “We urge anyone with concerns to seek qualified legal guidance. For those already facing detention or immigration proceedings, Aleph is available to provide support and help pursue possible avenues for resolution.”

The Aleph Institute's immigration department handles approximately 200 ICE-related cases annually, assisting individuals and families facing detention and other immigration challenges across the country. Cases include families in Lakewood, Teaneck, Los Angeles and other Jewish communities.

The organization works with authorities to pursue possible resolutions, advocates for alternatives to detention, connects families with legal and professional resources and helps arrange kosher food and chaplain visits for people in custody. Aleph also advocates for religious accommodations when detention facilities cannot meet an individual's religious needs.

Individuals in ICE custody and their families seeking support or advocacy can contact Aleph at 305-864-5553, ext. 215, email advocacy@aleph-institute.org or visit aleph-institute.org/immigration.