Crimes and U.S. Immigration

Crimes That Make U.S. Visa or Green Card Applicants Inadmissible (Ineligible for a Visa or Green Card)

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

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.

How Will a Criminal Conviction Affect My Immigration Hopes?

There’s no one list of crimes that are problematic for immigration purposes. Instead, you might need to look at one or two among the three different portions of federal law that might apply.

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).

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.