Understanding Inadmissibility: Guidance on U.S. Entry Denials

Navigating the complex reasons that may lead to being barred from entering the United States can be daunting, but with the right guidance, you can understand these hurdles and learn strategies to address them. Sapochnick Law Firm offers advice and support to help you avoid or overcome denials of entry into the U.S.

The United States takes measures to protect its borders and maintain the safety of its residents. Certain activities and conditions can render individuals ineligible for U.S. visas, green cards, or entry. These are legally known as the grounds of inadmissibility. Below, we outline the main categories that could lead to inadmissibility.

Every individual who seeks to enter, reside, or extend their stay within the United States faces scrutiny regarding potential inadmissibility. This applies to everyone, regardless of the intended duration of their stay or whether they are already permanent residents with green cards.

Various U.S. government entities, such as the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security, oversee immigration processes, and these include subdivisions like Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). At any stage – be it while crossing the border, applying for a green card, or requesting a different type of visa or immigration status – you may be subject to inadmissibility findings from these agencies.

Being deemed inadmissible at a U.S. border means immediate return to your home country. If you're within the U.S. and without any alternative legal status, you could face proceedings in immigration court for removal from the country.

Even permanent residents are not immune from inadmissibility. Leaving the U.S. for over 180 days can place a green card holder at risk of being found inadmissible upon their return. This situation can occur due to criminal activity, communicable disease development, or reliance on public welfare benefits subsequent to obtaining the green card. Permanent residents can mitigate this risk by applying for U.S. citizenship once they meet the eligibility requirements.

While certain grounds of inadmissibility may seem like insurmountable obstacles, there are avenues to dispute or circumvent them, potentially opening the door to legal entry or residency in the United States. Misdiagnoses, errors in your case assessment, or curable health conditions are a few examples where inadmissibility findings could be challenged or rectified. If such approaches prove unsuccessful, seeking a waiver to request that U.S. immigration authorities make an exception based on your unique circumstances might be an option.

At Sapochnick Law Firm, we can help navigate the intricacies of immigration law, including the delicate matters surrounding inadmissibility. If you're facing potential denial of entry into the U.S. or fearing your status could be at risk, do not hesitate to reach out for guidance.

Contact us at 619.819.9204, and let us help you with your immigration hurdles, providing clear direction and fervent advocacy every step of the way.