If you’re an immigrant living in New York and facing criminal charges, your future in the U.S. could be at risk. Even minor offenses can have serious immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of a green card, or ineligibility for citizenship. At Vasiliou Law, based in Queens and serving all of New York, we understand how critical it is to fight not only for your freedom but also for your ability to stay in the country. If you or a loved one is dealing with both immigration and criminal law concerns, here’s what you need to know.
Not all criminal offenses result in deportation, but certain charges—especially felonies and crimes involving moral turpitude—can have devastating effects on your immigration status. The U.S. government places non-citizens into different categories, including:
Each group faces different risks depending on the nature of the charges and whether they result in a conviction. Even a plea deal that seems like a good option in criminal court could lead to deportation or denial of immigration benefits. That’s why having a lawyer who understands both criminal defense and immigration law is essential.
Not all crimes will trigger immigration consequences, but certain offenses are considered “deportable crimes.” These include:
1. Aggravated Felonies
Under U.S. immigration law, aggravated felonies don’t just include violent crimes. Some non-violent offenses, such as drug trafficking, fraud over $10,000, and certain firearm offenses, also fall under this category. A conviction for an aggravated felony almost always leads to deportation and bars you from re-entering the country.
2. Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMTs)
The term “moral turpitude” refers to crimes that are considered to be dishonest or morally wrong. This can include:
If you are convicted of a CIMT within five years of entering the U.S. (or ten years for some permanent residents), you could be subject to removal proceedings.
3. Drug Offenses
Any drug-related conviction, even for minor possession, can put your immigration status in jeopardy. The only exception is a single conviction for possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana. However, even this can affect your chances of getting a green card or citizenship.
4. Domestic Violence & Protective Order Violations
A conviction for domestic violence, child abuse, or stalking can make you deportable. Even violating a restraining order could have serious immigration consequences.
If you’re facing criminal charges as an immigrant, your first step should be to hire a criminal defense attorney who understands immigration law. At Vasiliou Law, we work to:
Yes. Permanent residents (green card holders) can be deported for certain convictions, especially aggravated felonies and multiple crimes involving moral turpitude. Even if you’ve lived in the U.S. for decades, one mistake can jeopardize everything. If you’re a green card holder arrested for any crime, contact an attorney immediately to protect your status.
Yes. If you’re applying for naturalization (U.S. citizenship), USCIS will review your criminal history. Even past arrests can raise red flags. Certain crimes can delay or prevent your ability to become a citizen, especially those that suggest a lack of “good moral character.” If you have a criminal record, speak with an experienced attorney before applying for citizenship.
At Vasiliou Law, we know that one criminal charge could mean the difference between staying in the U.S. or facing deportation. We have experience defending immigrants in Queens and across New York, helping them navigate both criminal and immigration law challenges.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges and worried about immigration consequences, don’t wait—contact us today for a confidential consultation at 347-967-6141 or visit www.svlawpartners.com.
Your future in the U.S. may depend on the decisions you make today. Let us fight for you.
© 2025 Vasiliou Law. All rights reserved.