Published: July 1, 2026
Despite a massive backlog of pending cases, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has started re-reviewing previously issued immigration benefits. Traditionally, immigration enforcement prioritized undocumented individuals and those convicted of serious crimes. However, scrutiny has expanded to certain immigrants who already hold lawful status.
In less than a year under the second Trump administration, over 1.6 million immigrants have already lost or are set to lose their legal status in the US. In particular, those affected include individuals who entered the country through various legal pathways, such as visas, humanitarian parole, and temporary protected status (TPS).
DHS has created a new removal apparatus targeting green card holders. With increased scrutiny of deportations, understanding how the new system works is crucial to protecting your legal status in the US.
Overview of the New Removal Apparatus for Green Card Holders
DHS established the Tactical Operations Division to expand enforcement or re-review previously approved immigration benefits of immigrants who already possess lawful status. Despite the significant legal protections for lawful permanent residents (LPRs), a green card no longer guarantees you won’t face removal.
As of early May 2026, approximately 2,890 previously approved cases have been reviewed as part of the re-vetting Initiative. Notably, at least 80 percent of those cases required no further investigation. Yet over 500 green cards were under active review, and more than 50 green card holders had been flagged for potential removal proceedings.
What Can Trigger Green Card Removal Under the New System
LPRs can still be placed in removal proceedings if DHS believes a legal basis for deportation exists. Common grounds that can subject a green card holder to removal proceedings include the following:
- Immigration fraud or misrepresentation
- National security issues
- Conviction of certain crimes
- Aggravated felonies
- Drug trafficking offenses
It’s worth noting that not every arrest or misdemeanor triggers removal. For instance, a first-time DUI without injuries doesn’t automatically make you deportable on its own. Even when removal proceedings are initiated, you have the right to appear before an immigration judge, provide evidence, and seek available defenses.
Steps to Protect Your Status Under the New Removal Apparatus
Seeking the assistance of a Los Angeles green card lawyer as early as possible is crucial to protecting your legal status in the US. Below are additional steps you can take to safeguard your green card under the new removal apparatus.
- Ensure your green card remains valid.
- Refrain from extended travel outside the US without prior legal guidance.
- Carefully consider whether applying for naturalization is safe and advisable given your specific immigration history.
- Use caution about filing new immigration applications, as doing so can bring prior issues to DHS’s attention.
- Keep your address updated with the USCIS to maintain genuine ties to the US.
- Do not ignore any notice from DHS or immigration court and pursue all available legal defenses.
Understand Your Legal Options With a Los Angeles Green Card Lawyer
The enforcement rules regarding your green card have changed. With increased scrutiny, the cost of preparing without the legal guidance of a Los Angeles green card lawyer can be high. Our legal team at ALG Lawyers is here to help whether you’re dealing with past immigration issues or upcoming green card applications. Contact our firm to discuss your immigration case in detail and better understand your legal options.
FAQs on Can DHS Deport Green Card Holders Under the New Removal Apparatus
Can the US government revoke your green card without due process?
The US government has broad discretion in matters of national security. Even so, it cannot revoke your green card without due process. You have the right to defend your case and present evidence before an immigration judge.
new removal apparatus mean that all green card holders are at risk?
No. Holding a green card does not automatically put you at risk for deportation. The new removal apparatus prioritizes cases in which DHS has identified potential grounds for removal, such as fraud, criminal activity, or other statutory violations under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
How to respond when you receive a Notice to Appear?
Make sure to contact a green card lawyer right away. A Notice to Appear is the document that formally initiates removal proceedings. The sooner you secure legal representation, the better your chances of defending your status.
(Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers. Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from a qualified attorney based on their individual circumstances. Thank you.)