Obtaining a U.S. Green Card is a significant milestone for immigrants, granting not only various privileges but also a pathway to U.S. citizenship. However, Green Card holders must remain vigilant, as certain mistakes—whether intentional or accidental—can lead to the loss of their Green Card and even potential deportation.
While many assume that only serious criminal offenses can jeopardize their status, the reality is that seemingly minor errors can have severe consequences. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), several grounds can lead to the revocation of a Green Card. This article highlights five critical mistakes that Green Card holders should avoid to protect their status.
1. Establishing Permanent Residency in Another Country
One of the most significant risks to a Green Card is demonstrating an intent to permanently reside outside the United States. If a Green Card holder moves to another country with the intention of settling there, their Green Card may be revoked.
For instance, applying for permanent residency (PR) in another country, such as Canada, while holding a U.S. Green Card could signal to U.S. authorities that the individual no longer intends to maintain their U.S. residency.
This could result in the cancellation of their Green Card. To avoid this, Green Card holders must ensure their primary residence remains in the U.S. and avoid actions that suggest they are abandoning their U.S. status.
2. Staying Outside the U.S. for Too Long Without Proper Documentation
Remaining outside the United States for an extended period without proper authorization is another common mistake that can lead to the loss of a Green Card. If a Green Card holder stays abroad for more than one year without obtaining a reentry permit, their Green Card may be considered abandoned, as prolonged absence can be interpreted as an intent to relocate permanently outside the U.S.
To prevent this, individuals planning to stay abroad for more than a year must apply for a reentry permit before leaving the U.S. This document allows them to maintain their Green Card status while temporarily residing abroad.
3. Failing to File U.S. Taxes
Green Card holders are required to report their worldwide income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and file U.S. tax returns, regardless of where they earn their income. Failing to file taxes or pay owed taxes can lead to serious legal consequences, including the potential loss of a Green Card.
Tax-related issues can escalate to the point of triggering immigration enforcement actions, such as Green Card revocation or even deportation. Green Card holders must ensure they comply with U.S. tax laws to avoid jeopardizing their immigration status.
4. Incorrectly Claiming Nonresident Status on Tax Returns
When filing U.S. taxes, Green Card holders must avoid mistakenly or intentionally claiming nonresident status. Declaring oneself as a nonresident alien on tax forms can create confusion about one’s intent to maintain permanent residency in the U.S.
This discrepancy could raise red flags with immigration authorities, potentially leading to the revocation of the Green Card. To prevent this, Green Card holders should ensure they file taxes as U.S. residents and consult with tax professionals if unsure about their filing status.
5. Failing to Register for Selective Service (For Eligible Males)
Male Green Card holders between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register with the Selective Service System, which is used to draft individuals into the U.S. military in case of a national emergency. Failure to register within this age range can have serious immigration consequences, including the potential loss of a Green Card.
Registration is a simple process, and neglecting this obligation can create unnecessary risks to one’s immigration status. Eligible Green Card holders should ensure they complete this requirement promptly to avoid complications.
Additional Risks
Beyond these five mistakes, other actions can also lead to the loss of a Green Card. For example, if it is discovered that a Green Card was obtained through fraud or misrepresentation—such as providing false information during the application process—the card can be revoked.
Additionally, if an immigration judge issues a deportation order for any reason, the Green Card will be canceled as part of the removal proceedings. Green Card holders must be truthful in all dealings with immigration authorities and comply with U.S. laws to avoid such outcomes.
Maintaining a U.S. Green Card requires ongoing diligence and adherence to immigration and legal obligations. While the privileges of permanent residency are substantial, so too are the responsibilities. Green Card holders must avoid the mistakes outlined above, such as relocating abroad without proper planning, failing to file taxes, or neglecting Selective Service registration.
By staying informed and cautious, Green Card holders can protect their status and continue their journey toward U.S. citizenship without unnecessary setbacks. If unsure about any requirements, consulting with an immigration attorney or tax professional can provide clarity and help ensure compliance with U.S. laws.
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