At our law firm, we hear from immigrants every day — through phone calls, emails, and text messages. Green card holders, visa holders, and U.S. citizenship applicants all share the same deep concern: “Could my life in the United States be taken away?”

The fear many immigrants feel today is real. The stress is real. But how much of it is founded in actual immigration law — and how much is driven by misinformation, rumors, and social media hysteria?

As an experienced immigration attorney and family immigration lawyer, I want to offer a clear and balanced perspective: separating myth from reality, and giving you real tools to protect your future.

How Much Fear is Unfounded? A Reality Check from an Immigration Lawyer

First, the good news. For most lawful green card holders, the foundation of their status is strong. U.S. immigration law provides many protections to those who have obtained their green card properly and who continue to follow the rules. Deportation does not happen casually or randomly. It requires specific legal grounds and a full legal process with the right to defend yourself (source).

Yet misinformation spreads quickly, especially when people are understandably nervous. As an immigration lawyer, I regularly hear myths like:

• “If I accept government benefits, they can take my green card away.”

• “If I change jobs, I could lose my green card.”

• “If the laws change, I could be deported overnight.”

These scenarios, while alarming, are rarely grounded in fact. In most cases, lawful permanent residents who maintain their ties to the U.S., stay out of serious legal trouble, and update important documents like their green card and address with USCIS have nothing to fear.

Nonetheless, even small misunderstandings can cause unnecessary panic — which is why seeking advice from a professional immigration attorney is crucial when concerns arise.

When Fear is Founded: What a Green Card Lawyer Wants You to Know

While much of the fear circulating today is unfounded, there are situations where a green card holder’s status can be legitimately at risk. These include:

1. Criminal Charges or Convictions

Even minor criminal charges — especially those involving theft, domestic violence, controlled substances, or fraud — can lead to serious immigration consequences. Some offenses can trigger removal proceedings, and others can complicate future applications for naturalization (source).

Before pleading guilty to any criminal offense, you should consult both a criminal defense lawyer and an experienced green card lawyer who understands the immigration consequences of criminal charges.

2. Abandoning Permanent Residence

Extended trips outside the United States can put your green card at risk. If you are absent from the U.S. for more than six months, or especially for more than a year without a Reentry Permit, immigration officials may question whether you have abandoned your permanent resident status.

Maintaining strong ties — such as a U.S. job, home, bank accounts, and family — can help demonstrate that you intend to reside permanently in the U.S., even if you travel abroad.

3. Immigration Fraud or Misrepresentation

If a green card or visa was obtained through misrepresentation — whether intentional or not — USCIS has the authority to reopen the case, revoke the benefit, and potentially initiate removal proceedings. Even honest mistakes on applications should be addressed carefully with a qualified immigration lawyer.

4. Failure to Apply for Citizenship When Eligible

Remaining a permanent resident indefinitely is not always the safest strategy. Naturalization — becoming a U.S. citizen — offers the ultimate protection against removal. Many eligible green card holders delay applying for citizenship due to fear, misinformation, or simple procrastination, but delaying can leave them vulnerable if laws or policies change in the future.

Learn more about our citizenship services and how we can help you secure your future.

How Immigrants Can Protect Their Status Today

Here are key steps that every immigrant should consider:

• Stay Informed: But rely only on reputable sources — not social media rumors.

• Renew on Time: Always renew your green card, reentry permit, or work authorization before it expires.

• Consult Before Traveling: If you plan to be outside the U.S. for more than six months, speak to an immigration attorney first.

• Avoid Criminal Issues: A single mistake can have lifelong consequences. Seek legal advice immediately if you are charged with a crime.

• Pursue Citizenship: If eligible, file for naturalization to solidify your status permanently.

• Keep USCIS Updated: Always update your address within 10 days of moving, as required by law.

An experienced green card lawyer can walk you through these steps and ensure you’re protected from unnecessary risks.

Why You Need a Family Immigration Lawyer You Can Trust

In a time when fear and confusion are high, choosing the right legal advocate matters more than ever. Not all attorneys are the same. Some offer quick, impersonal service — others, like our firm, build real relationships based on trust, strategy, and care.

As a family immigration lawyer, my commitment is not just to “handle a case,” but to stand with you through every stage of your journey. Whether you are applying for a marriage-based green card, facing questions about your travel history, or planning your application for U.S. citizenship, the stakes are too high to trust your future to chance.

We combine fierce competition with real compassion. We don’t just aim to “win cases” — we aim to protect lives, reunite families, and build futures.

Your Next Step: Get Clear, Confident Legal Advice

Don’t let fear paralyze you. Don’t trust your future to rumors or outdated information.

Talk to a trusted immigration attorney who can provide real answers, real strategies, and real peace of mind.

At our firm, we are honored to stand with immigrants — not just as lawyers, but as partners in building the life you’ve worked so hard to achieve. If you need guidance from a seasoned immigration lawyer who truly cares, reach out today. Request your case evaluation from the button below. There is no fee and no appointment needed.