A few weeks ago, an immigration lawyer told green card holders it was safe to travel outside the U.S. He stated they have the right to return unless they have serious legal problems. But recent detentions at airports have made him rethink that advice. Local immigration lawyer in Los Angeles, Joshua Goldstein spoke to the Washington Post.
He said the fear is growing, and many people are really scared. Even U.S. citizens are asking if it’s safe to travel. His office is getting lots of calls from green card holders who are afraid to leave the country because they worry about being deported.
Want to know how these recent changes could affect your travel plans? Keep reading to find out how becoming an American citizen can protect you!
High-Profile Arrests of Green Card Holders Raise Concerns
Even though only a few green card holders have been detained, their arrests have caused a lot of fear. One case involved Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist at Columbia University. He was arrested and accused of supporting a group labeled as a security threat.
His wife, who is about to have a baby, recorded the arrest and said it was unfair and based on his political views. Another case is Fabian Schmidt, a German green card holder. When he landed in Boston, officers allegedly tried to force him to sign a paper giving up his green card.
Joshua Goldstein says these arrests show a big change in immigration enforcement. "The Trump administration is making it clear that their mass deportation plan isn’t just about undocumented immigrants," he said. "If green card holders and even U.S. citizens with immigrant backgrounds are scared, that’s a whole different level."
What Are the Risks of Traveling With a Green Card?
Many green card holders are too scared to leave the U.S. Some have canceled trips, while others are choosing safer options. A TikTok video went viral. It showed a nursing student who was reportedly deported after her mother’s funeral in Laos.
This news made people even more nervous. One Venezuelan medical worker and his American wife decided to honeymoon in Puerto Rico instead of another country. His wife admitted she was deeply worried about the possibility of him being forced to go somewhere without her.
Even long-time green card holders are feeling uneasy. "Am I scared? The more precise word is worried," said a communications worker from South America. "I have a lot of questions—should I apply for U.S. citizenship? Should I leave the country? Should I have backup plans?"
What Recent Events Mean for Green Card Holders
Vice President JD Vance’s recent Fox News comments have made people even more worried. Talking about Khalil’s arrest, he said green card holders don’t "have an indefinite right to be in the United States of America."
He also said that if the secretary of state and the president decide someone shouldn’t be in America and they don’t have the legal right to stay, then it’s simple—they will be removed.
Experts believe this could lead to more people being arrested. David J. Bier from the Cato Institute explained that this has been their plan all along, and now it’s clear. He said that if people go against their goals, they will be arrested and sent out of the country.
Why You Should Consider Applying for U.S. Citizenship
Many immigrants are unaware of the benefits of citizenship vs. permanent residency. Applying for U.S. citizenship is more important than ever. As the rules around immigration change quickly, becoming an American citizen can offer much-needed security. Joshua Goldstein strongly recommends that green card holders start the naturalization process in the U.S. as soon as possible.
What Does U.S. Citizenship Benefits Include?
Getting U.S. citizenship can help protect you, including:
Permanent Protection: Unlike green card holders, U.S. citizens don’t need to worry about green card travel risks and deportation. Once you become a citizen, you can travel freely. You won't have to worry about reentry issues or changes in immigration rules.
Voting Rights: When you become a citizen of the United States, you get the right to vote. This gives you a say in decisions that impact your future.
U.S. Citizenship Security Benefits: United States citizens have better legal protections if they face challenges. This means you are less at risk from changes in immigration policies.
By getting citizenship, you’ll ensure you remain protected when crossing border patrol checkpoints, even if Trump’s immigration laws change. If you are unsure about the naturalization or American citizenship process, contact Goldstein Immigration Lawyers for expert legal support.
We can provide expert legal services and naturalization tax support throughout your United States citizenship journey.
Get Trusted U.S. Citizenship Immigration Legal Services!
Joshua Goldstein urges caution: "If you're a green card holder, think carefully before traveling abroad. The rules are changing quickly, and what was once a safe journey could now put you at risk."
If you are worried about your immigration status, it is important to talk to a qualified local Boston attorney. Do this before making any travel plans. Immigration lawyer advice for green card holders, as stated by Joshua Goldstein, Esq. recommends applying for naturalization and becoming a citizen of America. This status offers enhanced protection and security.
We have a proven track record in U.S. citizenship cases. Our skilled team will review your case and expert immigration services will help you through the U.S. citizenship application. We will guide you to take the best steps during these uncertain times. Reach out today let us fight for your future together!
U.S. Citizenship Most Common Questions and Answers
Let’s have a quick run-through of the most American citizenship frequently asked questions and answers.
1. What are the 5 rules for a U.S. citizenship application?
To become a United States citizen, you need to be at least 18 years old. You must also have a green card for at least five years. If you are married to a citizen, you only need it for three years. You must also live in the U.S. continuously without taking trips of six months or longer.
If you are applying from California, you need to have lived there for at least three months. Additionally, you must meet other requirements, such as having good moral character.
2. How can I become an American citizen?
You must go through naturalizion which involves meeting certain residency requirements. You must also pass a test about U.S. history and government.L promise to be loyal to the United States. This gives you the full rights and protection of a United States citizen.
3. What are the four types of American citizenship?
There are four ways to become a U.S. citizen. You can go through naturalization, which means you apply and take a test after living in the U.S. for a certain time. You can also become a citizen by marrying an American.
If your parents are citizens of the United States, you might get citizenship through them. Another way is by serving in the U.S. military, which can help you become a citizen faster.
4. What proves that you are a citizen of the United States?
You can show you’re a U.S. citizen in a four ways. You can use a U.S. passport (even if it’s expired). YOu can also show your U.S. birth certificate, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Lastly, you can produce your Certificate of Naturalization.
5. How long will my green card last in the United States?
A green card usually lasts for up to 10 years. However, if you are a conditional permanent resident, your card is only good for 2 years.
Posted in: Blog