The U.S. Supreme Court has issued a decision making it easier for immigration officers to deny readmission to lawful permanent residents accused of certain disqualifying crimes. The ruling lowers the government’s burden at the border and raises serious concerns for green card holders with any criminal history who travel outside the United States. Green card holders should not have to fear losing their rights simply because they travel. This ruling makes it easier for immigration officers to deny readmission to lawful permanent residents accused of certain disqualifying crimes, without the higher “clear and convincing evidence” standard previously required. As Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned in dissent, this gives the government a dangerous amount of power over lawful permanent residents. It gives the government a “blank check” to weaken the rights of lawful permanent residents.

Green card holders should speak with an experienced immigration attorney before traveling internationally, especially if they have ever been arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime.