What Are the Most Common Reasons for Deportation?

Also known as removal, deportation is the legal process by which the U.S. government orders a non-citizen to leave the country. Understanding the most common reasons for deportation can help individuals and families take proactive steps to protect their immigration status.

At Rebecca Black Immigration, PA, we are committed to helping clients across the United States fight deportation and remain lawfully in the country. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the top reasons why immigrants are deported from the U.S., and what you can do if you or a loved one is at risk.

1. Criminal Convictions

One of the most common grounds for deportation in the United States involves criminal activity. Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can face removal if they are convicted of certain crimes.

Deportable Criminal Offenses Include:

• Aggravated felonies – such as drug trafficking, sexual abuse of a minor, or murder

• Crimes of moral turpitude – including theft, fraud, or assault with intent to harm

• Controlled substance violations

• Firearm offenses

• Domestic violence or child abuse convictions

• Multiple criminal convictions – two or more crimes that result in a combined sentence of five years or more

It’s important to note that not all criminal charges lead to deportation, but immigration authorities will assess whether the offense makes the individual “removable” under immigration law.

2. Immigration Violations

Many people are surprised to learn that non-criminal immigration violations can also lead to deportation.

Common Immigration Violations Leading to Deportation:

• Overstaying a visa

• Failing to maintain legal status (such as dropping out of school on a student visa)

• Working without authorization

• Entering the U.S. without inspection (crossing the border without going through an official port of entry)

• False claims to U.S. citizenship

These violations may not involve any criminal behavior, but they are taken seriously by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Individuals in these situations should consult an experienced immigration attorney immediately.

3. Fraud and Misrepresentation

Another major category of deportable offenses involves fraud or misrepresentation during the immigration process. U.S. immigration authorities expect complete honesty when submitting applications, petitions, and other official documents.

Examples of immigration fraud include:

• Using fraudulent documents to obtain a visa or green card

• Entering into a sham marriage for the purpose of obtaining legal residency

• Lying on immigration forms or during interviews with immigration officers

• Failing to disclose material facts, such as a previous deportation or criminal conviction

If discovered, even years later, fraud can result in revocation of status and removal proceedings.

4. Public Charge and Dependency on Government Assistance

Although rare, deportation can occur when an individual becomes a public charge—meaning they rely on government benefits as their main source of support. While simply receiving public assistance is not enough to trigger removal, misusing public benefits or making fraudulent claims (such as claiming a benefit reserved for U.S. citizens) can raise red flags.

Additionally, if a person receives certain benefits after falsely stating they are a U.S. citizen, this can be grounds for deportation.

5. Failure to Comply with Immigration Court Orders

Individuals who are already in removal proceedings or have been ordered removed must comply fully with immigration court directives. Failure to do so is a direct path to deportation.

This includes:

• Missing immigration court hearings

• Ignoring voluntary departure deadlines

• Failing to check in with ICE as required

• Not updating address with USCIS or EOIR

Even a simple mistake—like not receiving a notice due to an outdated address—can have severe consequences if it results in a missed court appearance.

6. Security-Related and Terrorism Concerns

Individuals who are perceived as a threat to national security or who have ties to terrorist organizations may be subject to expedited removal. While these cases are relatively rare, they receive high scrutiny from federal agencies.

Any suspicion of espionage, sabotage, or participation in terrorist activity—whether actual or alleged—can be cause for immediate detention and removal.

7. Unlawful Presence and Reentry After Removal

If someone has previously been deported and attempts to reenter the United States without proper permission, they are not only subject to another deportation but may face permanent bars from lawful reentry.

In some cases, unlawful reentry is considered a federal felony offense, carrying significant penalties.

What Happens During the Deportation Process?

The deportation process typically begins when an individual is served with a Notice to Appear (NTA) before an immigration judge. This document outlines the legal basis for removal and begins formal proceedings. From there, the process may involve:

• Detention by ICE

• Immigration court hearings

• Requests for relief from removal (such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status)

• Appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or federal court

Given the complexity of these proceedings, legal representation is crucial. The earlier you involve an experienced immigration attorney, the stronger your defense will be.

How Can You Avoid Deportation?

While every case is unique, there are general strategies that can help prevent deportation:

• Maintain lawful status at all times

• Avoid criminal activity and seek legal counsel immediately if arrested

• Ensure honesty and accuracy in all immigration filings

• Attend all court hearings and comply with immigration orders

• Work with a qualified immigration lawyer if you’re at risk

Speak with an Experienced Deportation Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one is facing deportation, do not wait. The stakes are too high. At Rebecca Black Immigration, PA, we have extensive experience defending clients in removal proceedings, challenging NTAs, and fighting for legal status in the United States.

We offer compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your specific circumstances. Whether you’re dealing with a visa overstay, a criminal conviction, or an immigration court order, we are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can protect your future.