How Can I Determine If I Am At Risk Of Deportation? 

You can gauge your risk of being deported by assessing your immigration status and the terms of your visa. For example, you have an F1 student visa but didn’t apply for a renewal. Other risks include having a criminal record or failing to disclose a change of address, among others. By thoroughly analyzing your circumstances, an experienced deportation and removal defense lawyer at Bassey Immigration Law Center can help you better understand the risks you face. With law offices in Tampa and Clearwater, we are a trusted source of immigration law throughout Florida. Schedule an affordable consultation today.  

5 Questions to Assess Your Deportation Risk 

To assess your risk of deportation, it can be helpful to ask yourself the following questions: 

• What is the status of my visa? Overstaying a visa is one of the main reasons people get deported from the U.S. Carefully review the terms of your visa, including duration of stay, work requirements, and renewal and extension guidelines, to determine if you are in compliance. 
• Am I an undocumented immigrant? Anyone who enters the U.S. without proper authorization is at risk of deportation. In 2021, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said, “immigration officers can no longer detain and deport people from the U.S. solely because they are undocumented.” However, the new guidelines mandate a case-by-case assessment of individuals to determine if they fall under priority categories.  
• Is my criminal record clean? Any criminal offense on your record can place you at a higher risk of deportation. Certain aggravated felonies can result in expedited removal. A minor offense may not warrant deportation, but it could draw unwanted attention from immigration authorities. 
• Was your immigration paperwork properly handled? Mistakes or misrepresentations in a visa application, petition for adjustment of status, and other paperwork can not only derail your immigration goals but also place you at risk of deportation. 
• Do I face persecution in my home country? The circumstances you would face if you returned to your home country could affect your risk of deportation. For example, you may be eligible for asylum if you face persecution due to race, religion, class, gender, nationality, or political affiliation.  

Consult with a knowledgeable deportation attorney in Tampa, FL, who can review the unique circumstances of your case and offer advice and guidance. 

I Am at Risk: Now What? 

If you determine you are at risk of deportation, do not panic, but ensure you make sound, informed decisions going forward. Learn about immigration laws and how they affect you. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, and advocacy groups who have your best interests in mind. Begin collecting documentation that can shine a favorable light on you if your case should end up in an immigration court. 

Most importantly, be proactive and contact an experienced immigration lawyer as soon as possible. They can help assess your risk of deportation and explore strategies for lowering or eliminating that risk. They can also help you advance your immigration status, whether extending a visa, obtaining a waiver, or seeking an adjustment of status. 

Schedule a Consultation if You Are at Risk of Deportation  

The threat of deportation can be frightening, but our experienced legal team can help you understand all the legal options available. At Bassey Immigration Law Center, we have over a decade of legal experience resolving many challenging immigration issues. Our multilingual team fully understands the immigrant experience and knows how to successfully fight for your future. Contact us today to discuss your concerns in a confidential, affordable consultation.