The United States, with its diverse culture and opportunities, attracts people from all corners of the world. However, while the country is generally welcoming, there are specific laws that every non-citizen must follow.
Failing to adhere to laws and regulations can result in severe consequences, including deportation.
Criminal convictions
Crimes ranging from aggravated felonies, drug offenses, domestic violence and even some misdemeanors can make you deportable. Committing a crime is one of the leading causes of deportations.
Violating immigration rules
If you overstay the duration permitted by your visa, work without the necessary authorization or fail to inform the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of a change in address, you risk deportation.
Each visa category has specific requirements and conditions. For example, if you are on a student visa but are no longer attending school, you could face deportation. Always understand the terms associated with your visa type and adhere to them strictly.
Fraudulent activities
Engaging in fraudulent activities, such as participating in a sham marriage to gain immigration benefits, using false documents or lying during your immigration interview, can lead to deportation.
Security and public safety concerns
If the government believes you pose a threat to national security or public safety, they can initiate deportation proceedings. This category includes involvement in terrorist activities or espionage.
Dependency on public assistance
In some cases, if you become a “public charge” by relying on government assistance programs without meeting the necessary criteria, the U.S. may consider you deportable.
While the United States offers numerous opportunities, non-citizens must respect its rules and regulations in order to avoid the risk of deportation.