Is this true: According to US immigration laws, you cannot deport a person if they have lived here for 12 years?

Answer by  blairemarie (128)

Unless the person is a United States citizen or has naturalized, this statement is untrue. The Immigration and Naturalization Act applies to all "aliens", which includes lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and non-immigrants (those on work visas or student visas). For example, an alien can be deported for criminal convictions, particularly those associated with moral turpitude and drug violations.

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

This is not true. If someone has lived in this nation illegally and did not qualify for a prior amnesty bill as occurred in 1986, they can be deported. Legal residents who commit serious crimes like rape or murder can also be deported after completing their sentence.

Answer by  blah (14)

A person who has lived in the U.S. illegally for twelve years can be deported. Many people in the U.S. believe that is also the right thing to do.

Answer by  jude (47)

No. First you must prove that you have been physically present in the US for a minimum of seven years, you are a person of good moral character, and your removal would cause extreme hardship to yourself, spouse, children, parents who are in the US legally.

Answer by  patti (29325)

It is not true. Illegal immigrants who serve long prison terms (even up to 50 years) are deported as soon as they are released from prison.

Answer by  colorado (10)

No it's not true. Based on the legal status if that person committed a criminal act They will be deported regardless. If that person lived here illegally 1 year or 20 years they will be deported if caught by the authorities for any reason.

Answer by  Carl0993 (107)

You can still deport a person even after living for 12 years, if they commit any crime or felony that is punishable with deportation, unless one has gained American Citizenship.

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

This is not true. Any immigrant who commits a felony can be deported, no matter how long they have lived here. If they have lived here illegally and never had a visa, they can be deported.

Answer by  flamiss22 (5081)

This is simply not true. Anyone can be deported if they have committed a crime regardless how long they have lived in this country. Even someone who has gotten citizenship can be stripped and sent back to the home country if the felony is serious enough.

Answer by  man17 (4)

I've heard that staying in a house or on land for 7 years gives that person the right of residence, but this law probably applies only to citizens.