The United States government has published a fresh list of three immigration violations that can lead to the deportation of non-citizens, including Nigerians and other foreign nationals residing in the country. The guidance, issued by U.S. authorities, clarifies that deportation is the legal process by which a non-citizen is removed for violating immigration laws.
The government also explained that foreign nationals detained by immigration authorities may be held in detention facilities while their cases are processed. Depending on the circumstances, some individuals may appear before an immigration judge, while others could face expedited removal without a court hearing.
Which Actions Could Lead to Deportation?
The U.S. government specified that non-citizens may face detention and eventual deportation for the following reasons:
- Participating in criminal acts: Foreign nationals who engage in criminal activities may be detained and removed. The government listed criminal acts as one of the primary grounds for deportation under U.S. immigration law.
- Posing a threat to public safety: Non-citizens considered a threat to public safety may also be deported. Authorities said public safety concerns can form part of the legal basis for removal.
- Violating the terms of a visa: Failing to comply with visa conditions, including breaches of immigration rules attached to a person’s visa or other entry documents, could result in deportation proceedings.
When Can Expedited Removal Happen?
The guidance also explained that some non-citizens may be removed without appearing before an immigration court through a process known as expedited removal. According to the government, expedited removal may apply to foreign nationals who:
- Enter the United States without proper travel documents.
- Use forged or fraudulent travel documents.
- Fail to comply with the conditions attached to their visa or other entry documents.
How to Check a Deportation Order
The U.S. government said individuals can check whether a deportation order has been issued by using the Automated Case Information System managed by the Department of Justice. The system requires an individual's eight- or nine-digit Alien Registration Number, commonly known as the A-number, which appears on correspondence issued by the Department of Homeland Security and the Executive Office for Immigration Review.
The guidance forms part of ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to educate non-citizens about immigration rules and the legal consequences of violating them.
US Embassy Clarifies Stay Duration for Nigerians
In a previous report, the United States Mission in Nigeria reminded travellers that holding a valid U.S. visa does not automatically determine how long they can remain in the country. The embassy urged international visitors to verify their authorised period of stay through their electronic arrival record after entering the United States.
