The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that Green Card holders with criminal histories, including Nigerians and other nationals, risk having their lawful permanent resident status revoked and face removal from the United States. The agency issued this statement on Tuesday, highlighting its commitment to enforcing immigration laws.
In a notice directed at Green Card holders, the CBP emphasised that holding a Green Card is a privilege, not a right. “Attention Green Card Holders: Having a criminal history does not make you an upstanding lawful permanent resident,” the agency declared. It further clarified that the U.S. government reserves the authority to revoke Green Cards if holders have violated U.S. laws.
The CBP, which prides itself on “protecting the American people, safeguarding our borders and enhancing the nation’s economic security,” stated that lawful permanent residents with prior criminal convictions may face serious consequences. These include immigration removal proceedings and mandatory detention when presenting themselves at a U.S. port of entry.
The agency underscored that possessing a Green Card comes with responsibilities, and those who abuse or break U.S. laws may lose their status. This move signals a stricter approach to immigration enforcement, particularly targeting individuals with past criminal records, as part of the CBP’s broader mission to uphold national security and border integrity.
