Bhutanese refugees resettled in the United States have largely obtained Lawful Permanent Residency (LPR) or U.S. citizenship through refugee programs. While U.S. citizens are fully protected from deportation, green card holders must comply with immigration laws to maintain their status. Though deportation is rare for LPRs, it remains a legal possibility under specific circumstances.
1.    Legal Status Protection: Bhutanese refugees who have become U.S. citizens cannot be deported under any circumstance. Green card holders (LPRs) have strong legal protections but must adhere to U.S. immigration laws.
2.    Statelessness Consideration: If a Bhutanese refugee has lost their nationality and remains stateless, U.S. immigration laws and international protections generally prevent deportation.
3.    Grounds for Deportation of LPRs: While green card holders have a pathway to citizenship, they may face deportation for:
Serious Criminal Convictions – Crimes such as aggravated felonies, drug-related offenses, and crimes of moral turpitude can lead to removal.
Immigration Violations – Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining refugee or LPR status may result in deportation.
Abandonment of Residency – Extended stays outside the U.S. without maintaining strong ties to the country may lead to the loss of LPR status.
National Security Concerns – Involvement in activities that threaten U.S. security, such as terrorism or espionage, can result in immediate removal.
4.    Policy and Enforcement Changes: Shifts in immigration policies can affect enforcement priorities, impacting how laws are applied to refugees and green card holders.
5.    Compliance and Vigilance: While deportation is unlikely for law-abiding individuals with legal status, Bhutanese refugees and LPRs should stay informed about immigration regulations and ensure they meet all legal requirements to maintain their protection.
Maintaining lawful status, avoiding legal infractions, and staying updated on policy changes are essential for securing long-term residency and a stable future in the United States.
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Bashu Phulara Esq.
View More PostsBashu Phulara is an immigration attorney based in New York City, known for his work in U.S. Immigration and Nationality Law. He founded Bashu D. Phulara, P.C., a law firm located in Times Square, where he manages a multilingual team that assists a range of clients, including individuals, families, startups, and large corporations. He holds an LL.M. from Tribhuvan University and a Master of Laws from Cardozo School of Law, bringing a solid legal foundation to his practice.
