If you are an undocumented immigrant, you probably fear facing deportation every day. If you are worried about this, you may want to investigate your options to become a legal resident. If you are already facing possible removal from the United States, you should act quickly to defend yourself from deportation.
There are many possible defenses to deportation in the United States. The following are some of the most popular and effective options. The best deportation defense for you will depend on individual circumstances such as whether you are employed and the political situation in your country of origin.
Claiming asylum or relief under the Convention Against Torture
If you have reason to fear for your safety upon returning to your country of origin, you may be eligible for asylum. Alternatively, you may be able to gain relief under the Convention Against Torture. To do this successfully, you should be able to show that you will likely be persecuted due to your political opinion, race, religion, nationality or social group.
U visa status
If you have been a victim of a crime, you and your immediate family may be able to gain a U visa if you are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation into the crime.
Permanent residency
You may be able to gain an adjustment of status and eventually gain permanent residency by taking the appropriate action. If this happens, you will be able to apply for a cancellation of removal.
Cancellation of removal for illegal residents
It can be possible for a non-lawful resident to obtain a green card if they can prove that they were physically present in the U.S. for more than 10 years and that returning to their country of origin would cause exceptional hardship to a relative who is a U.S. citizen, for example, a child or spouse.
Voluntary departure
It’s always an option for those facing removal to simply depart the country on their own accord. However, if they want to continue residing in the U.S., they should consider all other options first.
If you are worried about your immigration status in the U.S., take swift action so that you can begin residing in the country legally.