For countless individuals pursuing the American dream, the Green Card interview is a pivotal moment, often seen as the final hurdle to legal permanent residency. It's a day anticipated with hope and excitement. However, a chilling reality, often overlooked, has prompted immigration attorneys across the United States to issue a stark warning: a Green Card interview, under certain circumstances, can tragically turn into an arrest and even lead to deportation proceedings. "This is evil, but true," caution legal experts, urging applicants to approach this critical stage with extreme caution and thorough preparation.
The alarming truth stems from the collaborative nature of U.S. immigration enforcement. While U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts interviews to assess eligibility for a Green Card, they routinely share information and coordinate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This means that any past immigration violations, criminal history, or discrepancies uncovered during the extensive background check and interview process can trigger an immediate intervention by ICE.
Immigration attorneys emphasize that no applicant is entirely immune, though certain individuals face a higher risk. Those who have previously overstayed a visa, entered the country unlawfully, or have any unresolved criminal record—even minor infractions from years ago—are particularly vulnerable. Misrepresentation on past visa applications or during the Green Card process itself can also lead to severe consequences, including denial, arrest, and deportation.
The warning extends to various Green Card categories, including marriage-based Green Cards and those adjusting status from a K-1 visa. Even in what might seem like straightforward cases, a forgotten detail or an undocumented past event can become a major red flag during the meticulous interview process. USCIS officers are trained to identify inconsistencies and potential grounds for inadmissibility or deportability, and if such issues arise, an ICE officer might be waiting.
Legal experts highlight that the "evil but true" nature of this situation is the deceptive sense of security many applicants feel when called for an interview. They believe they are on the cusp of approval, not facing potential detention. This underscores the critical importance of understanding one's complete immigration and criminal history before attending any USCIS interview.
To mitigate the risk of an unexpected arrest at a Green Card interview, immigration attorneys strongly advise applicants to:
In conclusion, while the Green Card interview is a step towards a brighter future for many, it carries a significant risk for those with undisclosed or unresolved issues. The urgent warnings from immigration attorneys serve as a vital reminder: never attend a Green Card interview unprepared or without fully understanding your legal standing. Comprehensive legal guidance is not just recommended; it can be the difference between approval and arrest.
