What should I do when facing deportation?

Deportation involves the removal of a foreign national from a new country of residence. This process can occur for all sorts of reasons, and it can happen to immigrants that are in a country legally, as well as those who are not. Knowing what to do when faced with deportation is a must to ensure your rights are fully respected, which is why USA.gov offers the following information.

First, it helps to understand why people are commonly deported. Arriving in the U.S. without the proper documentation often results in expedited removal, which means an immigration hearing is not held. Other illegal immigrants may be subject to a hearing, which means the person would be placed in a detention facility until the hearing is scheduled. People with proper documents can also be removed for other reasons. Criminal behavior, threats to public safety, or visa violations are all grounds for deportation.

Be aware that if you’re facing deportation, you’re free to leave the country of your own accord before the process takes place. However, this is not a realistic prospect for everyone, especially if you have a family. There are many instances where an immigrant’s civil rights are being violated, which requires the assistance of an immigration attorney. In this case, you’ll need to file a complaint with the Department of Homeland Security about the issue. If you are in this country illegally, you can also request an adjustment of status, which provides a legal path to citizenship.

If these efforts are unsuccessful, you can appeal the deportation decision. Again, having an attorney’s assistance is a must for this process. You can also apply for readmission to this country if the deportation order is carried out.