Reasons Your Green Card Might Be Denied

To enjoy the freedom to live, work, study or retire permanently in the U.S., you will most likely require a Green Card.

Once you have this document, you would be granted P.R. for the remainder of your life, provided you abide by some simple rules, such as filing tax returns, not committing a crime, and making the U.S. your home.

Below are some reasons that the immigration authorities might appropriately, under the law, deny your application.

Health-Related

For admission as a lawful permanent resident, a medical examination is required. A govt-approved doctor performs this.

Criminal Related

A green card could be denied if you have committed certain types of crimes, or if you are coming to the U.S. to commit them.

Security Related

Seeking admission into the U.S. to violate U.S. security laws, such as orormer involvement or membership in the totalitarian or Nazi parties, genocide, or any group adverse to U.S. foreign policy; to engage in terrorist efforts; can lead to a denial of your green card.

Public Charge

Your green card could be denied if you are likely to become dependent on the U.S. government for long-term care or financial support. You may be deemed a likely public charge by the consular officer who reviews your case based on your age, health, family status, assets, resources, education, or skills, and financial status at the time of filing.

Immigration Violators

Suppose you have entered the U.S. illegally, such as sneaking in as a stowaway, gained entry by misrepresentation, failed to attend immigration removal proceedings, or have abused the visa process, such as violating the terms and conditions of your visa. In that case, you could be subject to denial.

Failure to Meet Application Requirements

During the application process for permanent residence, you will need to submit or bring numerous forms, fees, and documents. Failing to read the instructions carefully and provide what is requested can ultimately result in denial, though the government will usually allow you to supply missing materials first.

Failure to Attend Appointments

Once you have filed for your G.C., you are scheduled by USCIS for a fingerprinting appointment (if filing in the U.S.) and/or eventually an interview appointment (if filing overseas). You must attend these appointments or reschedule if need be. If not, your green card could be denied.

Denial of Underlying Visa Petition

Your intended grounds for filing for a PR are most likely either employment-based, in which case your sponsor will probably have filed a petition on Form I-140; or family-based, with your sponsor has filed a Form I-130 petition.