As an immigrant to the United States who does not yet have permanent citizenship status, you might feel that your ability to stay in the country is on thin ice. The reality is that there are only a few specific reasons that you might face deportation or removal as a noncitizen.
The American Immigration Council explains that noncitizens who a judge deems to be removable still have an opportunity to apply for relief from removal. Even so, it is important to understand the main reasons why an immigrant might face deportation ahead of time so you can protect yourself accordingly.
1. Criminal convictions
Removal from the country may be likely if you receive criminal charges for acts such as drug trafficking or violence that ultimately result in a conviction. If you face such charges, it is important to build a strong criminal defense to help protect your right to stay in the United States.
2. Immigration fraud
Immigration fraud may refer to acts such as providing misinformation on immigration documents. One common example is when an immigrant lies or exaggerates about their marital status, but even honest mistakes can result in serious consequences including deportation.
3. False citizenship claims
It is illegal to claim that you are a U.S. citizen before undergoing the full naturalization process. Lying about your citizenship status on job applications or in any other capacity is grounds for removal.
Even when you are in a situation that might call for removal from the country, your time in the U.S. does not have to end there. Options are available to you if you fear that deportation might be inevitable.