Immigration status in the United States can be affected by more than just paperwork and visa expiration dates. Certain criminal convictions may lead to removal proceedings, even for individuals who have held lawful permanent resident status for many years. Understanding what offenses may cause deportation is essential for anyone living in the country without full citizenship.
Deportation based on criminal charges is often based on how the law classifies specific offenses. While not every arrest results in removal, some convictions automatically trigger immigration consequences. The list below outlines categories of crimes that commonly lead to deportation proceedings.
Criminal offenses that can lead to deportation
The following are types of offenses that can make a noncitizen deportable under federal immigration law.
- Crimes involving moral turpitude: These include offenses that are considered morally wrong or dishonest, such as fraud, theft or assault with intent to cause harm. A single conviction within five years of admission, if punishable by at least one year in jail, may be grounds for deportation.
- Multiple criminal convictions: Having two or more convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude at any time after being admitted to the U.S., even if unrelated or tried separately, can result in removal.
- Aggravated felonies: These include serious crimes such as drug trafficking, firearm offenses or violent crimes. A conviction for any aggravated felony after admission is a strong basis for deportation and can make reentry nearly impossible.
- High-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint: Conviction under federal law for fleeing an immigration checkpoint at high speed is a deportable offense, regardless of whether anyone was harmed during the incident.
- Failure to register as a sex offender: If required to register under federal sex offender laws and you fail to do so, this violation may lead to removal, even if the original offense occurred long ago.
Convictions in any of these categories can have serious consequences for immigration status. Immigration law often treats criminal convictions more harshly than many people expect. Seeking legal guidance may be necessary for those facing criminal charges or dealing with the risk of deportation.