Green Card Holders Issued New Warning: Carry Proof of Status at All Times

Julie Anne L.
· · ·

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a stern warning for green card holders and all non-citizens, reminding them to always carry proof of their immigration status. Failure to do so could result in fines and misdemeanor charges if they are stopped by federal law enforcement.

Green Card Holders
Photo via Internal – US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has urged all non-US citizens to adhere to the rules and regulations of the United States.

Why This Warning Matters

Non-citizens, including green card holders, must carry their registration documents at all times. This is required by Section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The law applies to non-citizens aged 18 and older, who must carry their Green Card. Failing to do so can result in a misdemeanor and fines if stopped by federal authorities. The CBP advisory is a reminder to millions of lawful permanent residents in the U.S., especially as immigration policies change.

What Happens If You Don’t Carry Proof of Status?

Green card holders and other lawful permanent residents who do not carry their proof of status risk facing legal consequences. While documentation is required, individuals still have the right to remain silent and request legal representation if detained. They are not required to answer questions from immigration officers without a lawyer present.

Additionally, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented new fees for certain applications, including a $1,050 fee for requests such as travel documents or employment authorization. These changes add a financial burden to green card holders navigating the U.S. immigration system.

Enforcement and Impact on Immigrants

This new reminder is particularly significant as it follows previous directives aimed at increasing enforcement under the Trump administration’s mass deportation policies. The White House has indicated that individuals living unlawfully in the U.S. will be treated as criminals. Moreover, while green card holders have been legally residing in the country, there have been multiple reports of such individuals being detained during immigration enforcement raids.

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With over 12.8 million lawful permanent residents living in the U.S., the impact of this directive affects a significant portion of the immigrant population. The enforcement measures will likely continue to impact green card holders, including those from large immigrant communities such as those from India, Mexico, and the Philippines.

The Rights of Green Card Holders

Despite the mandatory documentation requirement, green card holders do have rights under U.S. law. They have the right to remain silent, request legal representation, and cannot be forced to answer questions without a lawyer. As U.S. immigration laws become stricter, it is crucial for all green card holders to comply with these regulations to avoid potential complications in their immigration status.

Do you think the increased enforcement on green card holders is fair, or does it create unnecessary fear and confusion? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Julie Anne Loquinario

Hey, it’s Julie! Powered by coffee and cuddles from my five feline overlords, I’m always hunting down the best cafés and restos in Toronto and the GTA. When I’m not indulging in my latest food obsession, you’ll find me binge-watching shows or dreaming up my next adventure.

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