How a Criminal Record Can Impact Your Immigration Case
Navigating the immigration process can be stressful on its own—but when a criminal charge gets added to the mix, the situation becomes significantly more complicated. Many people are surprised to learn that even minor offenses can influence an immigration case, affect future applications, or create delays with USCIS. The reality is that criminal and immigration laws overlap more than most people realize. Immigration officers don’t just look at the final conviction—they also examine the type of charge, the circumstances behind it, and how the case was resolved. Offenses involving violence, theft, fraud, or controlled substances often trigger additional scrutiny, but even lesser charges can raise questions depending on timing and severity. One of the most important things to understand is that a criminal charge is not the same as a conviction. A dismissal, reduction, diversion, or favorable plea deal can make a major difference in how an immigration case is viewed. That’s why it’s ...