I'm willing to bet that many of you reading this article have already done it, as your humble servant has. What I didn't know, however, was that one could lose their green card for specific reasons, and that's what we're going to discuss. If you don't want to lose your precious ticket to the American dream or want to be prepared for anything, this article will be welcome.

Staying Outside the United States

You might be wondering why we're talking about this. For many, staying in the USA after getting their green card seems like a no-brainer. However, not everyone has the same plans. Some see the USA as a means to reach other countries; not everyone is chasing the American dream. With your green card, try not to exceed 12 months abroad. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers can initiate removal proceedings if they suspect fraud related to your green card or re-entry permit. Getting a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S. allows a two-year stay without consequences.

Voluntary Surrender

If you decide not to reside in the United States anymore or want to avoid global income taxes, voluntarily surrendering your green card can be done by filling out form I-407. However, it's advised to be cautious to avoid being misled by a CBP officer.

Committing a Felony

Whatever you do, steer clear of committing a felony. It's almost a guaranteed way to lose your green card, and you might end up facing serious charges and incarceration. Imagine being new to the country and finding yourself in a prison with some of the most brutal gangs around.

Fraud or Misrepresentation

As you all know, the U.S. doesn't mess around regarding national security. Engaging in activities the U.S. government considers fraudulent, such as marriage fraud, can lead to losing your green card.

Failing to Remove Conditions on Your Green Card

If you have a temporary green card valid for two years, removing the conditions before it expires is crucial. Failing to do so can result in the loss of your green card.