Crimes That Make U.S. Visa or Green Card Applicants Inadmissible

Applying for a temporary visa or U.S. permanent residence? Make sure a crime in your past won't disqualify you.

Who Shouldn't Apply for DACA Deferred Action

Analyzing whether a DUI on the record of a lawful permanent resident will result in inadmissibility.

Will a Green Card Holder With a DUI Be Allowed to Reenter the U.S.?

A discussion of how a criminal record affects eligibility for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

Can Green Card Holder Be Deported While on Probation?

Once a green card holder is released from jail or prison, the immigration system takes over.

Smuggling Noncitizens Into the U.S.: Possible Legal Consequences

Alien smuggling is punishable by fines and prison terms.

Is it illegal to transport an undocumented immigrant within the U.S.?

Federal law on transporting aliens who are in the U.S. illegally.

What’s a Crime of Moral Turpitude According to U.S. Immigration Law?

Figuring out whether a state criminal conviction matches the federal concept of a crime of moral turpitude.

What’s an Aggravated Felony According to U.S. Immigration Law?

Even some minor crimes may come in for harsh treatment by the immigration system if they match the description of aggravated felony.

When the Petty Offense Exception Excuses a Crime of Moral Turpitude

Based on the potential penalty and prison sentence, certain crimes considered "petty," and therefore not crimes of moral turpitude (CMTs).

Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude: The Youthful Offender Exception

If you committed a crime when you were below age 18 but were tried in adult court, the youthful offender exception may protect you against denial of immigration benefits.

Can I stay in the U.S. if my life is in danger in my country even with an aggravated felony?

If you fear returning to your country, a remedy called withholding of removal may help you despite the crime on your record.

Why does my immigration attorney insist that I have a criminal background check done?

Some immigration attorneys make a policy of checking fingerprints on all clients, regardless of the likelihood that they've been arrested or had other law-enforcement issues.

How Helping a Relative Cross the Border May Hurt Green Card Status or Citizenship Eligibility

Providing any sort of assistance in bringing a family member to the U.S. may be considered alien smuggling, a possible bar to your own future immigration plans.