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Yes, it is possible for Visa holders and even green card holders to be deported from the United States under certain circumstances.  While having a visa or green card certainly offers proper legal standing in the U.S., these statuses also come with conditions. Understanding and complying with immigration laws is essential to avoid the serious consequences of deportation. 

Continue to read more about how vis and green cards holder can be deported, and always seek out an  experienced immigration lawyer for clarity about your legal status.  

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Understanding Immigration Status and Deportability

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency responsible for processing all immigration programs, such as naturalization, green card applications, and non-immigrant visas. A visa grants temporary or permanent permission to enter and remain in the U.S., while a green card proves lawful permanent residency.  A person must apply for a visa or green card through USCIS and requires submitting a formal application and going through a rigorous, often lengthy process before approval is granted.  After being granted these privileges, both visa and green card holders must comply with strict rules under U.S immigration law. Failure to comply with the rules, whether by overstaying a visa, committing a crime, or violating U.S. Laws, can trigger removal proceedings, which is the formal legal process that can result in deportation.

Common Reasons Why Visa and Green Card Holders Could Be Deported

For visa holders, deportation can occur if they overstay their authorized length or stay, fail to ask for an extension, or fail to follow the specific conditions as outlined in their visa  during their stay in the United States. Violations such as engaging in unauthorized employment, fraud/misrepresenting the purpose of their visit, or receiving government benefits fraudulently can trigger removal proceedings.  Criminal conduct can also result in deportation.

While some individuals knowingly violate immigration laws, others may unintentionally fall out of compliance. This can happen by missing important deadlines, such as failing to renew a visa or neglecting to apply for an extension before it expires. In some cases, individuals may be unaware or mistaken about of specific conditions attached to their visa or green card, leading to unintentional violations. Regardless of the holder’s intent, these missteps can still result in removal proceedings, however. That’s why it’s essential for all visa and green card holders to stay informed, monitor their status carefully, and seek immigration advice from a reputable U.S. immigration law firm.

Close up view of Fragment of Permanent resident card

Green card holders, although considered lawful permanent residents, are can also be deported under certain scenarios. U.S. law allows for deportation of green card holders if they:

  • Were inadmissible at the time they received their green card
  • Violated the terms of their immigration status
  • Committed certain crimes, including crimes involving “moral turpitude“ (e.g., fraud or theft), Aggravated felonies (e.g., drug trafficking, murder, kidnapping), crime involving domestic violence, and firearms offenses
  • Immigration-related fraud (e.g., marriage fraud or false claims of U.S. citizenship)

Even neglectful mistakes, such as failing to notify USCIS of a change of address within 10 days can put a green card holder at risk for serious consequences.  

Contact An Immigration Law Firm For Deportation Help

Navigating U.S. immigration law can be complex and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone thanks to the immigration law experts at CoxEsq, PC . It is true that even green card and visa holders can face deportation for violations of immigration or criminal law. Our firm has decades of experience in dealing with clients that are facing serious immigration complications and consequences.  We understand how to protect your legal status while aggressively defending your rights. If you’re facing legal trouble or have concerns about your immigration status, don’t wait.  We can help you safeguard your future and preserve your right to stay in the United States.  Contact our immigration law firm today to today to schedule a consultation.