The US government has issued a stern warning to Green Card holders, emphasizing that individuals with criminal records are at serious risk of losing their permanent residency status and being deported from the country. This measure is part of the government’s intensified efforts to enforce immigration laws more strictly and maintain the integrity of the US immigration system.
This latest development comes in the wake of recent changes to Nigerian visa policies by the US embassy, which signaled a broader shift toward tighter immigration controls affecting multiple nationalities. The changes reflect a growing focus on security and the prevention of immigration fraud.
Under the new guidelines, Green Card holders who have been involved in crimes characterized by moral turpitude, including fraud, dishonesty, and other forms of reprehensible conduct, may be subject to removal proceedings. These crimes, which undermine trust and public safety, are considered particularly serious by immigration authorities.
Moreover, Green Card holders risk losing their residency status if they remain outside the United States for more than 12 months without obtaining the proper re-entry permits or demonstrating a clear intention to maintain permanent residence. Such absences can be legally interpreted as abandonment of their US permanent resident status, leading to difficulties in re-entering the country or possible revocation of their Green Card upon return.
In addition to the above, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reiterated that lawful permanent residents with prior criminal convictions could face mandatory detention if they attempt to re-enter the United States through any port of entry. This means that even long-term Green Card holders may find themselves detained and placed in removal proceedings despite years of living in the US.
These stricter measures demonstrate the US government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing immigration laws and prioritizing national security. They also highlight the importance of compliance among Green Card holders, who must ensure that their conduct aligns with the legal expectations set forth by US immigration authorities.
Notably, this move serves as a strong reminder to all lawful permanent residents, especially those from countries like Nigeria and other affected nations, that the privileges of holding a Green Card come with significant responsibilities. Failure to adhere to these standards can result in severe legal consequences, including the loss of residency and possible deportation.