7 Mistakes That Could Get Your U.S. Green Card or Visa Revoked

If you’re living in the United States on a visa or a Green Card, your status isn’t guaranteed forever. According to a recent caution from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), certain actions can lead to serious consequences, including the revocation of your right to stay in the country.

Green Card and Visa Revocation

The USCIS has clear guidelines regarding the maintenance of your green card or visa status. Maintaining legal status is paramount, and any actions that violate the terms of your entry or compromise national security can lead to the cancellation of your immigration privileges.

We continuously work alongside our @DHSgov partners to rigorously vet all aliens even after a visa or green card has been obtained. This vigilance is essential to making America safe again. Break the laws and you will lose your green card or visa privilege. pic.twitter.com/VM0gjhsFXQ

— USCIS (@USCIS) May 2, 2025

Here are 7 key reasons your visa or Green Card could be revoked, especially under tougher immigration rules implemented in recent years.

1. Breaking U.S. Laws

Committing crimes, from serious felonies to certain misdemeanours, can result in your immigration status being revoked. USCIS emphasises that legal violations signal a breach of trust and may lead to deportation proceedings.

Why It Matters: A criminal record shows you’re a risk to public safety. Even minor offences may result in serious immigration consequences, including removal and future re-entry bans.

2. Supporting Terrorism or Extremist Groups

Any involvement, direct or indirect, in terrorist activities is one of the fastest ways to lose your U.S. residency or visa. This includes sharing propaganda, donating to extremist causes, or associating with banned organisations.

Why It Matters: National security is a top priority. USCIS has zero tolerance for any activity, online or offline, linked to terrorism or extremist ideologies. Even online activity or social media support, including a like, can raise red flags with immigration authorities.

3. Overstaying Your Visa

If you remain in the U.S. after your visa expires, it’s considered a violation of your stay conditions. This can trigger automatic visa cancellation, deportation, and future re-entry bans.

Why It Matters: Overstaying breaks the terms of your visa. It can affect future applications and make you ineligible for adjustment of status or re-entry for years.

4. Working Illegally

Non-immigrants who take up unauthorised employment in the U.S., whether paid or unpaid, risk visa cancellation. Green Card holders, too, must abide by employment laws and avoid fraudulent work arrangements.

Why It Matters: Unauthorised employment is taken seriously by immigration officials. It can result in the immediate cancellation of your status and impact future visa approvals.

5. Lying on Your Immigration Application

Providing false information, using fake documents, or omitting details on your visa or Green Card application is a federal offence. If discovered, your status can be revoked, and you may face criminal charges.

Why It Matters: USCIS uses extensive background checks. Any sign of fraud or dishonesty can disqualify you permanently from living or working in the U.S.

6. Violating Conditions of Stay

Each US visa comes with specific conditions, such as studying full-time, not working, or staying in a particular region. Violating these terms, like switching from a student visa to a job without proper approval, can lead to revocation.

Why It Matters: Your visa is issued for a purpose. If you violate its terms, it shows non-compliance, which can lead to visa cancellation and removal proceedings. Consult an immigration attorney before making major changes to your stay purpose.

7. Becoming a Public Safety Concern

If authorities believe you pose a threat to public health or safety, such as due to repeated arrests or dangerous behaviour, they can initiate removal proceedings.

Why It Matters: Immigration law protects community safety. Any threat, whether it is real or perceived, gives the government grounds to revoke your legal right to remain in the country.

Must Read: New US Visa Rules: 10 Major Changes for Students, Workers, & Travellers in 2025

Immigration Rules Got Tougher After Trump

The Trump administration reshaped the US immigration landscape, tightening scrutiny on applications, increasing deportations, and expanding “inadmissibility” grounds. Policies like “zero tolerance” and increased vetting have made it more important than ever to stay compliant.

Even though the Biden administration rolled back some measures, the legacy of stricter enforcement remains, especially in cases involving fraud, criminal activity, or overstays.

Final Thoughts

With U.S. immigration laws under constant evolution, it’s vital to stay informed, follow the rules, and act responsibly. A simple mistake can cost you your visa or Green Card and your future in the U.S.