Increasing Number of Immigrants Denied Green Cards Over Tattoos

As difficult as it can be to obtain a green card, the process just got a whole lot more complicated for immigrants.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, some immigrants may have their green card applications denied over tattoos.

The report shows that several Latino immigrants who have not been convicted of any crime were denied green cards or permanent residency since 2006 partly because of the assumption that some tattoos demonstrate affiliation with criminal gangs.

Héctor Villalobos, a Mexican immigrant interviewed by the Journal, said he was denied an application because of his tattoos, but explains that he is not affiliated with any gang; he merely liked the way they looked.

Many tattoos that are linked with criminal organizations have been used by immigrants who have never committed a crime. Unfortunately, U.S. immigration officials are rejecting applications based on the assumption that the immigrant in question is guilty of a crime or of being affiliated with a gang, despite their lack of solid evidence proving their opinions.

According to the Journal, the State Department claims it does not reject green card applications based solely on an applicant’s tattoos, but the evidence at hand demonstrates otherwise.

Tattoos should not be a valid reason why a green card applicant should be denied their petition. If you have experienced difficulty obtaining a green card, work visa, or any other legal status petition, turn to an immigration lawyer immediately for help.

Immigration attorneys do their best to ensure your rights are upheld. They know the ins and outs of the law and will work diligently to secure you and your loved ones legal status. In addition, immigration lawyers can help you find a job, establish a U.S.-based business and can even contest criminal charges.

Call to schedule an appointment today.

Tags: Affiliation, Assumption, Criminal Charges, Criminal Gangs, Criminal Organizations, Green Card Applications, Green Cards, Immigration Attorneys, Immigration Lawyer, Immigration Lawyers, Immigration Officials, Latino Immigrants, Mexican Immigrant, Obtaining A Green Card, Permanent Residency, State Department, Valid Reason, Wall Street Journal, Whole Lot, Work Visa

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