If that sounds like a provocative title, it is meant to be. We often come across people who have come to the United States having gone through the rigorous process of obtaining a Green Card. Unfortunately, some are under the illusion that once they have their green card they can do as they want without threat of deportation. Nothing can be further from the truth. Over the years, we’ve seen several actions that could result in one having their Green Card revoked. Following are three of which every green card holder (or those who are thinking about one) should be aware.

First, is misunderstanding the difference between the words “permanent and temporary.” The misunderstanding of these words occurs because individuals will define the terms one way but the United States government looks at them quite another. The length of a trip abroad may result in an allegation by immigration inspectors that the individual has abandoned their Lawful Permanent Resident status.  It is even possible that a trip outside the U.S. lasting 6 months may trigger an allegation of abandonment while a trip lasting one year, without prior approval, is very likely to result in the person being placed in removal/deportation proceedings. It is important to remember that any trips outside the U.S. must have fixed dates and the purpose of the trip must be specific.  Open-ended trips abroad, working or going to school abroad, and not having a permanent address in the U.S. are indicators that the lawful “permanent” resident is merely residing “temporarily” in the U.S.

Second, is assuming citizenship is always a good idea. Often, we meet with clients who have a goal to be citizens of the United States. But the goals that they have for their business and family may mean that ISN’T their best option. It is important to ask the question first, “What is my goal?” Then to determine with proper legal counsel what the best way is to reach that goal.

A third way to lose one’s green card is committing a deportable/removable offense. It is possible for someone with a green card to not only lose their lawful permanent resident status, but to be placed in removal/deportation proceedings for having been convicted of a serious crime.  What crimes will result in a lawful permanent resident being sent to an Immigration Judge depends on many factors. Some examples include crimes which are considered to be “aggravated felonies”, such as drug related crimes, and crimes that fall under the category of a crime involving “moral turpitude.”  These terms are defined broadly and depending on the record of conviction and the elements of the crime, a person may find themselves in immigration court.

If you commit a crime while in possession of a green card it could have serious consequences. Talking to a qualified immigration attorney and having them review your case could mean the difference between keeping your green card or being deported. It takes a while to get your green card as you already know, but it can take one careless act to lose it. It’s important to protect yourself and your residency status.

For more information or to have your current status reviewed give us a call or email us your request.

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M. Keil Hackley is a top  immigration lawyer dedicated to helping individuals and companies navigate United States immigration law. Keil is skilled and focused at helping clients with their immigration law cases. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, she works with both companies and individuals. If you have questions about immigration law in the United States or about your legal status, she can be reached at 954-349-4994.

Hackley & Robertson, P.A. -