Aba Attah, a U.S.-based immigration attorney, has issued a strong warning to undocumented immigrants living in the United States. According to her, recent moves by U.S. immigration authorities suggest a push to register undocumented immigrants, which may lead to increased deportation risks.
Attorney Attah explains that authorities are now urging individuals who entered the U.S. without proper documentation—particularly those who crossed through Canada or Mexico without inspection—to come forward and register. This new effort is being framed as a way to “regularize” individuals, but there are fears that registering may expose people to immigration enforcement.
“If you entered the U.S. without documents, the government likely doesn’t know you’re here,” she said. “But if you register, you’re revealing your address and identity, which could trigger deportation proceedings.”
This registration does not affect individuals who entered the U.S. with a valid visa, such as F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange visitor), or crew members (C/D visas), or those who already have I-94 records, work permits, or social security numbers. Many Ghanaians and other immigrants with prior documentation or pending immigration processes do not need to worry about this registration.
One of the key issues the authorities are targeting is the failure to update addresses, which has long been required but often ignored. Now, this is being enforced more strictly.
“They’re struggling to locate people with deportation orders, so they’re using tax filings and social media activity to trace addresses,” said Aba.
She warns that people with final deportation orders—even those issued 20 years ago—are at risk, especially if they come into contact with immigration enforcement or attempt to re-enter the U.S. from abroad.
Attorney Attah also highlighted an alarming rise in student visa revocations, particularly targeting F-1, M-1, and J-1 visas. More than 4,700 visas have been revoked, some due to students allegedly violating their visa terms by:
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Overworking beyond the allowed hours
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Engaging in activism
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Posting content on social media that authorities claim goes against U.S. foreign policy or national interest
In many cases, students were not even aware they had violated any rules, and some are now seeking reinstatementthrough immigration lawyers.
There is also growing concern for Green Card holders (lawful permanent residents) who travel frequently. Aba notes that individuals who travel too often, especially for long periods or for questionable reasons (e.g., smuggling contraband or misrepresenting their marital status), may face issues at the port of entry.
In one case, a man who was previously married and now divorced was flagged at the border because his Green Card file still listed him as married. There was an investigation into whether his immigration status had been obtained through fraudulent means.
“Green Card holders should avoid unnecessary travel for now, especially if they have any past immigration or criminal issues. The administration is taking a tougher stance and digging into old files,” she advised.
Despite increased enforcement, President Trump has not canceled dual citizenship, and family-based petitions for spouses and children are still being processed.
Attorney Aba encourages immigrants to consult with legal professionals if they are unsure about their status or facing issues. In these uncertain times, being informed and proactive is crucial for protecting your legal standing in the United States.
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