Visa and green card holders face potential deportation issues
Many immigrants in the United States with legal status, including those on temporary visas and green cards, are feeling stressed about the possibility of deportation. This anxiety has been heightened by recent high-profile cases, like that of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder facing deportation. The Trump administration is increasingly tough on immigration enforcement. Reports indicate that the government is revoking visas for individuals accused of violating immigration laws. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that visa revocations are happening daily, particularly for those involved in pro-Hamas protests. Legal experts explain that multiple agencies are involved when it comes to visa issues. The State Department, for example, determines visa eligibility, while Customs and Border Protection assesses individuals upon arrival in the U.S. Even minor discrepancies in a visitor's story can lead to complications. Green card holders have a right to live in the U.S. as long as they don’t break the law. They must renew their green cards every ten years and can apply for citizenship after meeting certain criteria. However, if they violate immigration rules, they can face deportation. Recent cases show a renewed focus on deporting individuals based on foreign policy concerns. Immigration experts note that any visa is a privilege, not a right. This administration appears willing to use old policies to address individuals who publicly criticize the government. Despite the rise in visa revocations, individuals in the U.S. maintain constitutional rights, including free speech and due process. The outcome of current legal challenges to these practices remains uncertain.