When Donald Trump was about to take office, many in the US expected stricter rules on illegal immigration, temporary work visas, and student visas. However, few anticipated that even Green Card holders would face scrutiny. A US Green Card was once considered almost as good as citizenship. Still, recent cases of Green Card holders being detained or deported have raised concerns about their rights and legal options, especially for Indians and other immigrants in the US.

This increased scrutiny of Green Cards is a major concern for Indians, as they are the second-largest group to obtain US citizenship or Green Cards in FY 2024. A total of 49,700 Indians became naturalized citizens, making up 6.1% of the new citizens.

However, with the growing risk of deportation, what rights do Indian Green Card holders have, and what resources are available to them in the US?

Green Card holders, or lawful permanent residents (LPRs), have the legal right to return to the US after travelling abroad. However, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to inspect and question them to confirm their eligibility.

According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), permanent residents have the right to "live permanently in the United States, as long as they do not engage in actions that could make them removable under immigration law."

Green Card holders can work in any job they qualify for, except for certain security-related positions, and are protected by US law. However, they must follow all US laws, file income tax returns with the IRS and state tax authorities, support a democratic government (though they cannot vote), and register for Selective Service if they are male and between 18-25. If their visa is wrongly revoked, they can request reconsideration at the issuing consulate, apply for a waiver if inadmissibility is cited, or challenge the decision in a federal court. There are official procedures for appeals and revocation.

Reasons your green card can be revoked

A Green Card allows non-citizens to live and work in the US permanently, but it can be revoked for various reasons, leading to deportation. Common causes include marriage fraud, committing crimes, substance abuse, or proven immigration fraud during the application process. If convicted, the person serves their sentence in the US before facing removal proceedings. Additionally, a Green Card can be revoked if there is strong evidence of involvement in terrorism or support for a terrorist organization. In such cases, the individual receives a notice to appear before an immigration judge.

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