In short, being arrested for immigration reasons means there will be a lot of uncertainty. It’s hard to know when deportation might happen if someone can stay in the U.S., or what the laws mean. In this U.S. deportation timelines article, we will discuss the different issues related to deportation and the possible situations that an undocumented immigrant might face.
The Initial Situation
Imagine a scenario where a friend or family member attempts to cross the U.S. border without permission or successfully enters the country but is later apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It is crucial to note that entering the U.S. without proper authorization is against the law. Now, let’s consider a specific case: your younger brother from El Salvador, a young, unmarried individual, currently detained in immigration custody. What options are available to him? Is deportation inevitable, or is there a chance for him to stay? Let’s begin by understanding the fundamentals of the deportation process.
Swift Action for Recently Arrived Undocumented Immigrants
For those who have recently crossed the border without permission, the expectation is often swift deportation. However, the timeline for deportation depends on several key factors:
Prior Entries and Removals
Previous interactions with immigration authorities can significantly impact the deportation process. If there exists an order of removal in the person’s immigration file, authorities can enforce it, resulting in immediate deportation. In cases where you believe there may be grounds for the individual to remain in the U.S., consulting an immigration attorney becomes a crucial step, as they can explore the possibility of reopening the case.
Length of Time Spent in the U.S.
Individuals who have spent only a short period in the United States might be subject to “expedited removal.” This means they could face deportation without a hearing before an immigration judge.
U.S. Enforcement Priorities for Removal
The current enforcement priorities established by U.S. immigration authorities can significantly influence the deportation process. Immigration authorities prioritize certain cases over others, actively expediting or delaying deportation proceedings based on their discretion and criteria, which can significantly impact the timeline and outcome of the cases.
Credible Fear of Persecution
If the individual has a credible fear of persecution in their home country, they may be eligible to apply for asylum. This application can extend their stay in the U.S. as their case is evaluated.
Long-Term Options for Immigrants
Those who have resided in the United States for an extended period, typically ten years or more, have maintained good moral character, and can demonstrate that their deportation would result in “exceptional and extremely unusual hardship” to qualifying relatives who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, there may be an opportunity for “cancellation of removal.” This process can eventually lead to obtaining a green card but often involves multiple hearings in immigration court, taking months or even years to resolve.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Depending on the individual’s country of origin and the current safety conditions in that country, they may qualify for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This legal status can provide a basis for remaining in the U.S. while their home country is deemed unsafe for return.
Priority for Deportation
Prosecutors may exercise discretion and grant administrative closure or prosecutorial discretion to individuals who have resided in the U.S. for more than three years and have a clean criminal record, allowing them to avoid deportation and resolve their cases favorably. This option is worth exploring, typically with the assistance of an immigration attorney.
However, if the individual is considered a high priority for deportation, the system may expedite their removal proceedings.
Fear of Persecution or Torture
Individuals who fear persecution or torture upon returning to their home country can present their case for asylum, withholding of removal, or relief under the Convention Against Torture before an immigration judge. These avenues can provide long-term protection and the right to remain in the United States.
Voluntary Departure
Requesting voluntary departure from an immigration judge allows individuals to leave the U.S. on their terms, avoiding the issuance of a removal order. This option is beneficial for those who wish to protect their potential for future U.S. immigration, as it circumvents the long-term bar associated with removal orders.
Navigating Immigration Court Proceedings
For individuals placed into immigration court proceedings, the timeline can vary considerably. The immigration system experiences significant backlogs, leading to extended wait times for hearings. While delays can be advantageous in certain cases, they often mean a challenging period of waiting in detention or residing in the U.S. without the right to work, depending on the case type.
Overview of the Deportation Process
- Initiation of Deportation Proceedings:
- Deportation proceedings typically start when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehends an undocumented immigrant or when law enforcement conducts a routine check that results in a referral to ICE.
- Individuals may face expedited removal if ICE apprehends them within 14 days of entering the U.S., allowing for quicker deportation without a court hearing unless they express fear of persecution or request asylum.
- Deportation proceedings typically start when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehends an undocumented immigrant or when law enforcement conducts a routine check that results in a referral to ICE.
- Legal Proceedings:
- If not subject to expedited removal, the individual will receive a Notice to Appear (NTA), which initiates formal removal proceedings in immigration court.
- The timeline for these proceedings can vary widely; some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others could take years due to backlogs in the immigration court system.
- Detention and Removal:
- Once an order of removal is issued by an immigration judge, ICE typically has a 90-day removal period to execute the order. However, individuals may remain in detention longer if they pose a flight risk or have criminal convictions.
- If an individual fails to comply with the removal order, they become a target for further enforcement actions by ICE.
Factors Affecting Timelines
- Legal Representation: Access to competent legal counsel can significantly impact the duration of proceedings. Those without representation may face quicker deportations due to a lack of knowledge about their rights and options.
- Country Conditions: Deportations may be delayed if there are concerns about conditions in Nigeria that could affect the safety of returnees, such as political instability or violence.
- Policy Changes: Immigration policies can shift with different administrations, affecting enforcement priorities and resources allocated for deportations. For instance, during the Biden administration, there has been a marked increase in arrests and deportations compared to previous years.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Dealing with deportation proceedings is a highly intricate area of immigration law, and the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney can be invaluable. If you have a friend or family member facing deportation or immigration detention, it is essential to connect them with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can assess their case, explore available options, and provide guidance throughout the U.S. deportation timelines process.
The deportation process in the United States is multifaceted, and influenced by numerous variables. Whether an individual faces immediate deportation or has avenues to explore for staying in the U.S., seeking professional legal counsel is paramount. Understanding the complexities and possibilities within immigration law can make a substantial difference in the outcome. Remember, timely action and informed decisions are crucial when navigating these challenging circumstances.
In this detailed exploration of the U.S. deportation timelines process, we have examined the various factors that impact an undocumented immigrant’s journey through the U.S. immigration system. By understanding these complexities, you can better support friends or family members facing deportation and help them make informed decisions during this challenging time.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to assist you with U.S. deportation timelines and the visa process. Whether you’re applying for a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or Non-Immigrant Visas (e.g., H-1B, F-1), we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration lawyer consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients navigate U.S. deportation timelines and securing the visas/permits they need. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
