Can I Be Deported if I Am a Resident? Being a permanent resident in the United States comes with many rights and benefits. However, it doesn’t make you completely immune from deportation. Certain actions or circumstances can lead to losing your residency status and even facing removal from the country.
Reasons Why Residents Can Be Deported
- Criminal Convictions: Committing certain crimes is one of the most common reasons residents are deported. Serious offenses like drug trafficking, violent crimes, and sexual abuse can lead to deportation. Even some non-violent crimes, like fraud or theft, may put your residency at risk.
- Violations of Immigration Laws: Lying on immigration applications, smuggling people, or participating in immigration fraud are serious violations that can lead to deportation.
- Extended Absences from the U.S.: If you leave the U.S. for an extended period without proper documentation or permission, the government might see it as abandoning your residency, leading to deportation proceedings.
- Failure to Notify Change of Address: By law, Green Card holders must inform the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of any address change. Failing to do so can be considered a violation that, in some cases, may result in deportation.
Can I Lose My Green Card?
Yes, you can lose your Green Card. Aside from deportation, you could lose it if you voluntarily give up your residency, commit fraud during the application process, or abandon your residency by living outside the U.S. for long periods without maintaining ties.
Need Help?
If you’re facing deportation or worried about losing your Green Card, it’s crucial to get legal help as soon as possible. J. Molina Law Firm specializes in immigration law and can provide the guidance and representation you need. Reach out to us today for a consultation.
