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Re-Entry Bans for Leaving the US Unlawfully

U.S. immigration laws establish different re-entry bans for individuals who leave the country unlawfully. These bans are designed to deter people from overstaying their visas or otherwise violating immigration regulations.

180 Days or More of Unlawful Presence

Individuals who accumulate 180 days or more of unlawful presence in the United States face a three-year bar from re-entering the country. This ban begins from the date of departure.

Full Year or More of Unlawful Presence

Those who remain unlawfully in the U.S. for a full year or more will be subject to a ten-year re-entry ban upon leaving. This ban is significantly longer than the three-year ban for shorter periods of unlawful presence.

Exceptions and Waivers

There are certain exceptions and waivers that may allow individuals with re-entry bans to return to the United States. These include:

• Marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Children born to U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Cases of extreme hardship or compelling circumstances

Individuals who believe they may qualify for an exception or waiver should consult with an immigration attorney for guidance.

Consequences of Re-Entry Bans

Re-entry bans can have significant consequences, including:

• Prohibited from returning to the United States for the duration of the ban
• Potential denial of future visas or entry into the country
• Detrimental impact on family and personal connections

It is important to note that re-entry bans apply to both legal and illegal departures from the United States. Individuals should be aware of these bans and the potential consequences before considering leaving the country unlawfully.