Cancellation of Removal for green card holders (also called LPR cancellation) is a defense available to lawful permanent residents who face removal (deportation) from the United States. If granted by an immigration judge, the individual may keep their green card and remain in the U.S.
âś… Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, the green card holder must meet all of the following:
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Lawfully admitted for permanent residence for at least 5 years.
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Resided continuously in the U.S. for 7 years after lawful admission (before receiving a Notice to Appear).
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No aggravated felony convictions.
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Merits a favorable exercise of discretion by the immigration judge.
Note: The “stop-time rule” freezes the 7-year residency period once a Notice to Appear (NTA) is issued.
⚖️ What Crimes Disqualify You?
Convictions that disqualify an applicant include:
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Aggravated felonies (e.g., drug trafficking, violent crimes, theft with a sentence of 1+ year)
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Certain crimes of moral turpitude
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Multiple convictions with cumulative sentences of 5+ years
Some offenses may trigger mandatory detention, meaning the green card holder remains in custody during proceedings.
📝 What’s the Process?
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The person must already be in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.
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They file Form EOIR-42A and provide documentary evidence.
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A merits hearing is held where testimony, character evidence, and supporting documents are reviewed.
If the judge grants relief, the individual retains their permanent resident status and avoids removal.
đź’ˇ Strategic Considerations
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Judges weigh positive and negative factors. Community ties, rehabilitation, length of residence, family hardship, and employment history can help.
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Even with a qualifying background, it’s not guaranteed. The judge must agree you deserve relief.
👨‍⚖️ Case Example
A green card holder with 15 years of U.S. residence and a single past drug possession conviction might still qualify—if he shows strong rehabilitation and family/community ties.
📞 At Borderless Lawyers, we help permanent residents facing deportation build strong cancellation of removal cases and protect their legal status. Your green card—and your future—deserve the strongest possible defense.