A green card grants you permanent residence and is a huge step towards U.S. citizenship. Owning a green card gives you certain privileges, but also comes with responsibilities. As a green card holder, you must follow certain laws and regulations. Such as with being a U.S. citizen if you break the law, you will face punishment, but as a green card owner, you can risk getting your green card revoked. In this blog, we will go over the different grounds for green card revocation and tips on avoiding it. 

can you lose your green card?
immigration services schedule a consultation

Grounds for Green Card Revocation

While owning a green card grants you permanent residence, it’s essential to understand that a green card can be revoked under certain circumstances. Here’s a look at the key grounds for green card revocation:

1. Fraud or Misrepresentation

  • False Statements or Documentation: Providing false information during the green card application process is a serious violation that can lead to revocation.
  • Concealing Information: Withholding critical information, such as previous immigration violations or criminal history, can result in green card revocation.
  • Marriage Fraud: Entering into a marriage solely to gain a green card, without the intent to establish a genuine marital relationship, is considered fraud and can lead to revocation.

2. Noncompliance with Immigration Laws

  • Failure to Maintain Lawful Status: Green card holders are required to maintain lawful status. Violations, such as not renewing a green card or failing to apply for citizenship, can lead to revocation.
  • Overstaying a Visa: Remaining in the U.S. beyond the authorized period, even before obtaining a green card, can be grounds for revocation.
  • Working Without Authorization: Engaging in employment without proper authorization before obtaining a green card can lead to loss of status.
  • Failing to Report a Change of Address: Green card holders must report any change of address to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Failure to do so may lead to revocation.

3. Criminal Activity

  • Conviction of a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude: Crimes that involve moral turpitude, such as fraud or theft, can lead to green card revocation.
  • Conviction of a Crime Punishable by Imprisonment for a Term Exceeding Five Years: Serious criminal convictions may result in deportation and green card revocation. 
  • Multiple Convictions for Misdemeanors: Repeated misdemeanor convictions may also lead to revocation.

4. Public Charge

  • Becoming a Public Charge: If a green card holder becomes dependent on government assistance and is deemed a public charge, their green card may be revoked.

5. Failure to Maintain Continuous Residence

  • Absence from the U.S. for an Extended Period: Green card holders must maintain permanent residence in the U.S. Extended absences without proper re-entry permits can lead to revocation.

6. Grounds Related to Marriage-Based Green Cards

  • Dissolution of the Marriage Within Two Years: If a marriage ends within two years of obtaining a green card, the USCIS may review the legitimacy of the marriage, potentially leading to revocation.

How to Prevent Green Card Revocation

In order to avoid getting your green card revoked, it is important to follow certain laws and regulations. Here are a few tips to avoid green card revocation: 

  • Keep Your Status Valid: Renew your green card on time, avoid unauthorized work, and don’t overstay visas to maintain lawful status.
  • Stay Informed and Report Changes: Keep up with immigration laws and promptly report any changes, like address updates, to USCIS.
  • Avoid Legal Trouble: Follow all laws to prevent convictions that could jeopardize your green card, including minor offenses.

How to Get Help With Your Green Card

If you have questions about your green card or need help obtaining one, talk with an immigration lawyer at CoxEsq., P.C. Our experienced attorneys have over 20 years of experience supporting clients through the green card process. We can help you every step of the way to ensure you’re on the right path toward living and working in the United States as a permanent resident. Contact CoxEsq., P.C. today to schedule a free case evaluation.