Green Card Holders on Edge in 2025: What Lawful Permanent Residents Need to Know Amid Rising Border Detentions
In recent months, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), commonly known as green card holders, have encountered increased scrutiny and detentions upon re-entering the United States. This shift has raised significant concerns within immigrant communities about the security of their residency status and the potential risks associated with international travel.
A notable example is Lewelyn Dixon, a 64-year-old LPR who has lived in the U.S. for five decades. In February 2025, upon returning from a trip to the Philippines, Dixon was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) due to a decades-old felony conviction for embezzlement. Despite having served her sentence and maintaining a clean record since, she faced unexpected detention, highlighting the intensified enforcement measures now in place.
This incident is not isolated. Reports indicate that CBP officers at various ports of entry have begun automatically detaining LPRs with pending Notices to Appear (NTA), even those possessing valid documentation. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has noted this change, emphasizing that such detentions can occur regardless of the validity of an individual’s I-551 stamp. Furthermore, some LPRs have reported being pressured into signing Form I-407, a document that voluntarily relinquishes their permanent resident status. It’s crucial for green card holders to understand that signing this form is not mandatory, and they have the right to refuse. Abandonment of LPR status should only occur voluntarily or be determined by an immigration judge.
The broader context includes legislative actions such as the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants suspected of certain crimes, potentially affecting LPRs with past convictions. Additionally, initiatives like Project 2025 propose expanding detention facilities and increasing deportations, raising further concerns about the treatment of immigrants, including green card holders.
Given these developments, LPRs should take proactive steps to safeguard their status:
Stay Informed: Regularly consult reputable sources and legal advisories to stay updated on changes in immigration policies and enforcement practices.
Seek Legal Counsel: If you have a criminal record or pending immigration matters, consult with an immigration attorney before traveling internationally to assess potential risks and receive guidance tailored to your situation.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights at ports of entry. Remember, you are not obligated to sign documents like Form I-407 under pressure. If detained, you have the right to request legal representation.
Maintain Documentation: Carry all necessary and up-to-date documentation when traveling, including evidence of your residency status and any legal proceedings, to facilitate smoother re-entry processes.
While the current climate presents challenges, being well-informed and prepared can help LPRs navigate these complexities and protect their rights amidst evolving immigration enforcement landscapes.
If you or a loved one has any immigration-related questions, do not hesitate to reach out to our team for additional support.