Green Card Security Under Scrutiny in Trump Era
The Donald Trump administration has delivered a stark message to immigrants. A Green Card no longer automatically means permanent residence in the United States. Recent actions demonstrate this shift clearly. Authorities have arrested Green Card holders who are activists. They have deported these individuals, labeling them as national security risks.
New Restrictions for Nationals of 75 Countries
The administration announced another significant change. Nationals from seventy-five countries will not receive Green Cards now. Officials are examining how much welfare benefits these individuals are taking. This review process has created new barriers for many hopeful immigrants.
Common Mistakes That Endanger Green Card Status
Immigration attorney Moumita Rahman recently discussed these issues in a YouTube video. She explained how people unintentionally put themselves at risk. Many make simple errors that threaten their legal status. Here are ten critical mistakes every Green Card holder should avoid.
1. Extended Absences from the United States
Green Card holders can travel and work abroad legally. However, trips lasting longer than six months create problems. Immigration officials may use these long absences as evidence. They could argue the individual has abandoned US residency. Experts advise spending at least nine to ten months each year in the country.
2. Insufficient Ties to American Life
Not having enough connections to the United States poses a serious risk. A Green Card holder might lose their status over this issue. Several factors can demonstrate strong ties. Maintain a real, fixed address. Open a US bank account and get a US credit card. File taxes regularly. Hold a job in America. Keep family members in the country. Enroll school-aged children in US schools.
3. Criminal Convictions for Serious Offenses
Attorney Rahman clarified an important point. Minor infractions like speeding tickets usually do not cause trouble. The real danger comes from serious criminal convictions. Examples include fraud, theft, shoplifting, domestic abuse, and causing physical harm to others. These offenses can lead directly to deportation.
4. Failure to Pay US Taxes
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services now checks tax compliance more rigorously than ever before. Green Card holders must file Form 1040 without fail. This document reports income to the Internal Revenue Service. It informs the government about earnings, tax owed, and potential refunds.
5. Making False Claims to Immigration Authorities
Even accidental false claims carry severe consequences. This mistake is often unredeemable. Never claim US citizenship on any official form if you are not a citizen. Do not register to vote or actually vote in US elections. Avoid trying to obtain a US passport illegally. These actions will trigger Green Card revocation.
6. Missing the Deadline for Conditional Green Card Conversion
Some individuals receive conditional Green Cards through marriage. They must file Form I-751 ninety days before the card expires. Do not file earlier or after the expiration date. This form converts the conditional card into a permanent Green Card. Missing the deadline means losing status and facing deportation.
7. Triggering Suspicion of Marriage Fraud
Even genuine couples can raise red flags. Immigration officials look for signs of a fake or paid marriage. The key problem arises when couples do not demonstrate a shared life. Maintain joint finances, live together, and document your relationship thoroughly.
8. Misrepresenting Facts to Immigration Officials
Deliberate suppression of facts can cost you your Green Card. The lies do not need to be enormous to cause trouble. Never hide a previous deportation or removal order. Do not leave out past immigration violations. Be truthful about your employment history at all times.
9. Failing to Report Address Changes
Green Card holders must notify USCIS within ten days every time they move. Submit Form AR-11 to update your address. This simple administrative step is mandatory. Many people forget this requirement and face unnecessary complications.
10. Voluntary Abandonment Through Form I-407
Submitting Form I-407 means formally giving up your Green Card. Only use this form when you truly intend to abandon US residency. Do not submit it merely to evade tax obligations. Signing this document surrenders your legal status permanently.
The Changing Landscape of US Immigration
The Trump administration has fundamentally altered immigration enforcement. Green Card holders now face increased scrutiny. They must navigate a more complex legal environment. Understanding these ten common mistakes provides crucial protection. Stay informed and compliant to safeguard your right to remain in the United States.
