Under the administration of President Donald Trump (as of June 2025), U.S. immigration policies have undergone significant changes, creating heightened risks for undocumented immigrants, green card holders with criminal records, and even law-abiding green card holders. These policies emphasize stricter enforcement, expanded deportations, and increased scrutiny for both legal and undocumented immigrants. At Truong Law Firm, PLLC, we recognize the urgency for green card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents – LPRs) to apply for U.S. citizenship as soon as possible to safeguard their legal status. This article summarizes the risks, the benefits of U.S. citizenship, and invites you to use our professional services to navigate this complex process.

1. 1. Undocumented Immigrants

• Mass Deportation Efforts: President Trump has pledged the largest deportation program in U.S. history, targeting 15-20 million undocumented immigrants, including long-term residents. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids are occurring at workplaces, schools, hospitals, and public spaces.
• Risky Registration Requirement: Since April 11, 2025, certain undocumented immigrants must register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Alien Registration Act using Form G-325R. Registration may lead to detention, deportation, or criminal prosecution, as the information is used to identify and deport individuals. Failure to register can result in fines or imprisonment.
• Expedited Removal: The expedited removal policy has been expanded nationwide, allowing deportation of undocumented immigrants living in the U.S. for less than two years without a court hearing, unless they can prove asylum eligibility.
• Social Impact: Families with undocumented members face risks of separation, impacting mental and physical health and causing economic disruption due to loss of workforce contributions.

1. 2. Green Card Holders with Criminal Records

• Enhanced Enforcement: The Trump administration has strengthened coordination between ICE and USCIS to quickly identify green card holders with criminal records, even for minor offenses from decades ago. For example, a lawful permanent resident of 50 years was detained for a 20-year-old conviction.
• Deportation Risk: A green card does not fully protect against deportation if there is a criminal history, especially at ports of entry like airports or borders, where stricter checks apply. Offenses such as petty theft, driving without a license, or minor violations can trigger risks.
• Social Media Scrutiny: DHS has intensified monitoring of green card holders’ social media, targeting those suspected of anti-government views or “national security threats.” Some have been detained for online activities, such as protests supporting Palestine, without criminal charges.

1. 3. Other Green Card Holders

• Stricter Screenings: The Trump administration has implemented “enhanced vetting” at ports of entry, leading to detentions or denials of entry for green card holders, even with valid documentation. Some have been denied for vague reasons like “diplomatic interests.”
• Green Card Processing Delays: USCIS has paused processing for certain green card applications, particularly for refugees and asylees, creating legal uncertainty.
• Travel Advisories: Immigration attorneys advise green card holders to avoid international travel, especially stays abroad exceeding six months, without a reentry permit. Some countries, like Germany, have updated travel warnings for their citizens visiting the U.S.
• Community Fear: USCIS social media posts remind green card holders they are “guests” in the U.S., increasing fears of losing permanent resident status.

1. 4. Other Groups

• Temporary Visa Holders: Students and temporary workers face risks of visa cancellations or entry denials due to social media checks or minor violations. Over 1,700 international students have faced sudden visa status changes.
• U.S.-Born Children: Trump signed an executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. starting February 19, 2025, if their parents lack legal status. Though challenged as unconstitutional, this policy creates concern for mixed-status families.
• DACA and TPS Recipients: The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program faces potential termination, threatening over 500,000 individuals. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations for over 860,000 people from 16 countries are also at risk of cancellation, leading to deportations.

The risks outlined above demonstrate that permanent resident status is no longer as secure as it once was. Applying for U.S. citizenship (via Form N-400) is the best way to protect yourself from deportation and stringent immigration policies. Key reasons include:

• Eligibility Timeline: Most green card holders can apply for citizenship after five years of continuous U.S. residency (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). With Form N-400 processing times ranging from 8-18 months, applying now ensures completion before further policy changes.
• Status Protection: Immigration attorneys report a surge in green card holders applying for citizenship to avoid sudden deportation risks.
• Travel Safety: U.S. citizens face no entry denials or stringent checks at borders, even with minor criminal records.
• Long-Term Peace of Mind: Citizenship provides stability, especially amid unpredictable immigration policies under the Trump administration.