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As the Trump administration intensifies efforts to tighten immigration laws, including a focus on legal immigrants, US Green Card holders are facing heightened checks and questioning at ports of entry.
Many lawful permanent residents returning from overseas travel are reporting longer interviews and growing fears of being denied entry or placed in deportation proceedings.
Amid growing fears of legal trouble and deportation, some Green Card holders are also choosing to leave the US voluntarily, a trend known as self-deportation.
This is particularly seen among those with past criminal issues or immigration complications
Green Card holders’ right to re-enter the US
Green Card holders, known as lawful permanent residents (LPRs), have the legal right to return to the United States after traveling abroad.
However, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to inspect and question Green Card holders to ensure they continue to meet the eligibility for permanent residency.
1. Green Card holders can travel abroad and return, but must prove they intend to live permanently in the US
2. Extended trips abroad (6 months or more) may raise questions about whether the person has abandoned US residence
3. Trips lasting over 1 year require a re-entry permit, without which CBP may deny entry
Why Green Card holders are facing scrutiny now
The Trump administration has made immigration enforcement a key part of its agenda, extending beyond undocumented immigrants to include legal residents.
Green Card holders are being scrutinized for issues like:
CBP officers are focusing on determining whether returning Green Card holders are genuinely resuming US residence or if they may have abandoned it by living elsewhere for too long
What happens if CBP questions your status?
1. If CBP officers suspect that a Green Card holder is no longer eligible to stay, they may:
2. Refer the person to secondary inspection for more questioning
3. Start removal (deportation) proceedings
4.Allow entry but issue a notice to appear before an immigration judge
Important rights during this process:
1. Green Card holders have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge if their status is challenged
2. They can hire a lawyer at their own expense to represent them during the court process
3.However, lawyers are not allowed during CBP interviews at the airport or land border
Can CBP search your belongings and devices?
Yes, CBP has the right to search Green Card holders' luggage and electronic devices such as phones and laptops, even without a warrant.
These searches are aimed at verifying whether travelers are carrying prohibited items or whether their records show issues that could affect their admissibility
What should Green Card holders do before traveling?
Given the current environment, immigration lawyers advise Green Card holders to prepare carefully before traveling
Trump’s policy and the broader crackdown on immigrants
The Trump administration has emphasized deporting immigrants with criminal records and tightening immigration pathways, which has also impacted Green Card holders.
While lawful permanent residents enjoy many rights, their status is not fully protected if they violate certain laws or fail to maintain residency properly
Policies and public statements from the administration have blurred the line between undocumented and legal immigrants, leading to more aggressive questioning and actions at ports of entry
Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/migrate/what-are-the-rights-of-green-card-holders-at-us-ports-of-entry-amid-trumps-immigration-crackdown/articleshow/119103867.cms
