Concerns regarding the possibility of deportation for foreign students and green card holders in the US have been raised by the recent arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist involved in Columbia University campus protests.
Although a person with a green card is considered a lawful permanent resident and can live and work in the US indefinitely, there are some circumstances in which they could be deported.
Green Card Rights: Who and Why Can A Green Card Holder Be Deported?
Green card holders’ rights (per USCIS):
- can remain in the US permanently unless they commit crimes that would result in their deportation.
- can work lawfully, with the exception of positions with security restrictions.
- are safeguarded by all federal, state, and municipal laws.
Green card holders’ responsibilities:
- All US laws must be followed.
- obligated to submit income tax returns.
- The democratic system (without voting) must be supported.
- Residents who are male (18–25) are required to register with the Selective Service.
Can people with green cards be deported?
Yes, in specific circumstances like fraud, serious felonies, threats to national security, or prolonged absences abroad that result in the abandonment of residency.
Deportation defenses under the law:
Holders of green cards, especially those with close family ties or long-term residency in the US, may apply for waivers, cancellation of removal, or other legal remedies.
Modifications during the Trump presidency:
Stricter regulations apply to holders of student visas (F-1, M-1, and J-1):
- may be deported if they break the terms of their visa, stay too long, or commit crimes.
- must continue to be enrolled full-time and refrain from working without permission.
- have fewer legal options than those with green cards, though some might be eligible for appeals or asylum.
Students and immigrants from India in the US:
- For the 2023–2024 school year, 337,630 Indian students were enrolled in US universities.
- Approximately 2.7 million Indian immigrants, or 6% of all foreign-born people in the US, were living there as of 2019.
- The exact number of Indian green card holders is unknown.
