GREEN CARD HOLDERS: DO NOT SIGN I-407 FORM
We have heard reports of green card holders, who are returning to the U.S. from trips abroad, unknowingly signing Form I-407 and getting their green cards taken away. Do not feel pressured to sign anything during your travels. By filling out the I-407, which is a “Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status,” you voluntarily surrender your lawful status as a permanent resident of the U.S. and can be deported.
- If you’re a permanent resident in the U.S., you have the right to refuse signing Form I-407.
- You have the right to speak with an immigration judge. Only an immigration judge has the authority to revoke a person’s lawful permanent resident status.
- You have the right to review documents in a language you understand.
- Avoid long trips. Extended absences (especially over six months) may raise questions about whether you abandoned your U.S. residency
- If you have been convicted of a crime in the U.S., speak to an attorney before taking any international trips. Certain convictions may have negative immigration consequences when being readmitted into the U.S.
- Ensure your green card is unexpired before you travel.
- If you have conditional permanent residency, make sure you timely file your I-751.
To help protect our community members, we urge you to please share this information widely.
source:ajsocal.org
