For most immigrants, one of their biggest fears is being deported from the United States. Many immigrants believe that they are safe from this fear once they become permanent residents. Unfortunately, however, deportation is sometimes still possible for permanent residents in certain situations, and it's important to be aware of what these situations are.
Your Admission to the United States Was Not Legitimate
If it is found, after the fact, that your admission to the United States was not legitimate, often because it was based on falsified or incorrect information, you could face deportation. Obviously, the best way to prevent this from ever happening in the first place is by being honest about absolutely everything when applying for permanent residency and when entering the states.
If it's too late for that or you accidentally provided inaccurate information, a lawyer may be able to help. There are no guarantees; it all depends on the details of your case and of your specific situation, but getting some professional, legal assistance is much better than doing nothing.
You Moved and Didn't File the Proper Form
Immigrants in the United States are required to immediately inform the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Department within ten days of changing their home address. There is no excuse not to do this since it is the law. Additionally, it's easier than ever before since you can do it online.
Believe it or not, something as simple as not providing your new address within the specified time could lead to deportation. If you have made this mistake, your lawyer might be able to get you out of hot water if you act quickly and get the required information in as soon as possible.
You've Been Convicted of an Aggravated Felony
Finally, and most seriously, if you are convicted of what is known as an "aggravated felony," your chance of deportation is high. Aggravated felonies are serious crimes and include, but are not limited to, murder, spying, child pornography, and drug trafficking.
If you have been convicted of a serious crime, contact an immigration lawyer to learn what your options are.
In fact, no matter what, if you think you're at risk of being deported, seek professional, legal counsel right away. There are no guarantees that you can avoid deportation, but in many instances, your lawyer can find loopholes and other ways to keep deportation from happening or to at least prolong it.
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