Avoid These Simple Errors to Protect Your Status in Virginia

 Posted on October 24, 2025 in English

In states across the United States where many immigrant families are an integral part of their communities, even the most minor misstep can trigger a removal proceeding by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). From something as seemingly harmless as missing a court date, these errors can have severe immigration consequences. If you are worried about the constantly changing immigration laws and your legal status, it is helpful to consult with a Fairfax County, VA family immigration lawyer from Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC.

Why Even the Smallest Mistakes Now Matter for Non-Citizens

Since the end of January 2025, immigration law has dramatically expanded the types of criminal offenses that trigger mandatory detention and deportation. This includes charges – not convictions – against a non-citizen for a minor offense like shoplifting. Regarding crimes involving moral turpitude (theft, fraud, assault), even a single, minor offense can place a non-citizen at risk of removal.

Many of these expanded definitions of deportable crimes now apply retroactively to past convictions. This means a non-citizen could face deportation for an old, minor offense that was not considered deportable at the time. Under the current administration, enforcement resources have been vastly increased, with a focus on meeting deportation quotas, even if that involves targeting non-citizens with minor infractions. Recent changes in federal policy have removed much of the discretion formerly exercised by immigration officials and prosecutors.

Racially biased policing practices disproportionately target communities of color, including immigrants, increasing the likelihood of minor contacts escalating into removal. Finally, many of the new policies have made it much more difficult for non-citizens to access legal defenses and relief from removal proceedings, particularly for those with limited resources.

What Are the Five Most Common – Yet Simple – Mistakes That Can Lead to Deportation?

In Virginia, local immigration attorneys report that many removal cases now stem from as innocent as an address change, a simple misunderstanding, or a missed deadline. The five most common mistakes that can now lead to deportation include:

Failure to Maintain or Renew Legal Status

Overstaying a visa, failing to file a change in status, or not applying for renewal in time can result in the loss of work authorization, which in turn can lead to a non-citizen becoming "out of status." Removal is now often triggered by one of these issues. Consult an experienced immigration attorney early, and keep a calendar of expiration dates.

Working Without Proper Authorization or Violating Visa Terms

Non-citizens who accept employment when they are not legally authorized, or who change jobs without the required approvals, can find themselves facing deportation. This often occurs in the hospitality and construction industries, when workers shift roles or employers assume authorization. Always confirm work eligibility, and if there are any doubts, do not start without verification.  

Failing to Appear for Immigration Hearings

A missed hearing due to failure to update an address with USCIS or the immigration court can result in a removal order issued at the time of the missed hearing. Although changes of residence are common, the authorities must always be notified. Update addresses promptly, tracking all communications and hearing dates.

Criminal Convictions or Admissions of Guilt Even for Minor Offenses

Some crimes trigger deportation under "grounds of removal," no matter how minor. Being charged in a local Virginia court can lead to immigration consequences, even long after the case is closed, or before it has gone through the court system. Always contact an immigration lawyer before pleading guilty to a criminal offense.   

Providing False Information or Misrepresentation

Providing false information on immigration forms or claiming U.S. citizenship when it is not true can trigger removal proceedings. Even an incomplete application or an attempt to expedite a case can result in deportation.

Contact a Herndon, VA Family Immigration Lawyer

If you believe you may have made one of these mistakes, consult a highly skilled Fairfax County, VA immigration attorney from Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC as quickly as possible. Always stay informed about deadlines and be meticulous about keeping all your records in order. Attorney Ruiz has more than 20 years of experience in immigration matters, offers full-service, and speaks both English and Spanish. Call 571-441-2233 to schedule your initial attorney meeting.