The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a warning to lawful permanent residents, commonly known as Green Card holders, stating that individuals with prior criminal convictions could face deportation and have their immigration status revoked.

In a notice released on Tuesday, CBP reminded Green Card holders that immigration benefits are conditional and not guaranteed rights.

“Attention Green Card Holders: Having a criminal history does not make you an upstanding lawful permanent resident,” the agency said, emphasizing its mission to protect national security, uphold the law, and safeguard the U.S. economy.

The agency underscored that holding a Green Card is a privilege, not a right, and that the U.S. government has the legal authority to revoke permanent resident status if laws are violated.

“Possessing a green card is a privilege, not a right,” CBP stated. “Under our nation’s laws, our government has the authority to revoke your green card if our laws are broken and abused.”

The notice also warned that lawful permanent residents with criminal records could face mandatory detention when arriving at U.S. ports of entry, in addition to being placed in removal proceedings.

(NAN)