The United States is home to more than 45 million immigrants, and it is a growing population. Back in 2021 alone, there were over 1.5 million people who filed for green cards. But don’t be deceived by those numbers.
While getting a green card is possible for many, it’s not always easy. U.S. immigration laws are very strict, and there are certain criteria that you must meet in order to be approved for a green card.
Here we’ll go over some of the things that can disqualify you from getting a green card.
Green Card Eligibility Requirements
Before we go through every disqualifying factor, let’s take a look at the basics of green card eligibility.
To be eligible for a green card, you must meet certain requirements such as:
- Being sponsored by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Having an immediate family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Having a job offer from an employer in the United States
- Being granted asylum or refugee status
- Having certain skills or special qualifications
- Having resided in the U.S. since January 1st, 1972
- Being a victim of certain crimes
Meeting one of these paths makes you eligible to apply, but it does not guarantee approval. U.S. immigration law includes several grounds of inadmissibility that can still prevent a green card from being granted, even when you meet the basic eligibility requirements.
Health Issues
One of the main reasons people are disqualified from getting a green card is health-related. U.S. immigration laws require all applicants to be in good health, and any issues that could affect public safety may lead to a denial of your application.
You will undergo a medical exam facilitated by a government-approved doctor. During this exam, any health issue that is identified can be used as a reason to deny your application.
Some examples of health issues that may disqualify you from getting a green card include:
- HIV/AIDS
- Tuberculosis
- Drug addiction
- Physical or mental disorders
- Certain chronic diseases
In some cases, applicants may qualify for medical waivers or be allowed to reapply once the condition is treated or managed. An immigration attorney can advise whether a waiver or medical documentation could help your case.
Criminal Record
Another factor leading to green card denial is having a criminal record, especially when it includes certain types of crimes. Criminal convictions, particularly those categorized under Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMTs), can significantly affect your eligibility. Immigration law identifies numerous CIMTs that can result in a green card denial.
These include, but are not limited to:
- Drug trafficking
- Human trafficking
- Money laundering
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Grand theft
- Child abuse
- Fraud
- Bigamy
- Mayhem
Even if your conviction occurred years ago or you have completed your sentence, immigration law may still consider it disqualifying unless you qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility. Consulting an experienced immigration lawyer is essential in determining if relief is available.
If You Are Considered a National Security Threat
For some obvious reasons, a criminal conviction or prior immigration violations can severely impact your green card application. If you are perceived as a threat to national security, your chances of obtaining an immigrant visa can be significantly diminished.
The U.S. government takes these matters extremely seriously, and any links to terrorism or espionage activities are immediate grounds for denial.
You Are Considered a Public Charge
The U.S. government also looks at your financial ability to support yourself, as it doesn’t want green card holders becoming a burden on the state. To be approved for an immigrant visa, you must show that you are financially stable and won’t become a public charge (someone who depends solely on government assistance).
You must also prove that you have a legal source of income, such as:
- Employment
- Self-employment
- Retirement savings or pension plan
- Financial assistance from family members or other sponsors
If you are unable to provide evidence showing your financial stability, your green card application may be denied.
In recent years, the public charge rule has been clarified to ensure that most applicants are not penalized for using basic benefits like healthcare or food assistance. Still, your sponsor must meet income guidelines and provide an affidavit of support.
You Made Mistakes on Your Forms
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires absolute accuracy and strict adherence to guidelines during the green card application process. Leaving sections of your application blank or failing to include required signatures can lead to a denial. Always fill in every field, and if something does not apply to you, write “N/A” (not applicable).
All documents must be in English. If your originals are in another language, include a certified translation. For photos, follow the official requirements: a recent color photo, taken within the last six months, clearly showing your face on a white or off-white background. Selfies are not accepted.
Provide all necessary evidence such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or divorce decrees. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons for rejection.
Finally, always double-check your application for completeness and submit it before the deadline. Small errors cause major delays or denials, something that a qualified immigration attorney can easily prevent.
You Failed to Attend Your Interview
Just like in any other job or application process, the green card process requires an interview. USCIS may or may not require you to attend, but if they do, it’s important that you show up on time.
If you fail to appear or are late without a valid reason, your application can be denied. However, if you had a medical or family emergency, you can request to reschedule by contacting USCIS as soon as possible.
Fingerprinting and biometrics are also part of this stage. You may be asked to submit fingerprints, which are used for background checks and security purposes. Always be honest during your interview, as withholding information about your past can lead to an immediate denial.
What Can You Do if Your Green Card Application Is Denied?
There are several options available if your green card application is denied:
- Submit a motion for reconsideration. This allows you to show that a legal or procedural error led to the denial.
- File a motion to reopen. This applies when new evidence has become available that was not included in the original application.
- Lodge an appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). This is used when you believe USCIS made a procedural error. File Form I-290B within 30 days of the decision.
- File Form I-485 again. This lets you reapply with stronger evidence or corrections.
- Seek a review from a judge. This last option carries some risk of removal but can be effective in specific cases.
Navigating this process can be complicated. Having an experienced immigration attorney on your side can help you evaluate your options, strengthen your case, and improve your chances of success.
Key Takeaways
The green card process is complex and filled with requirements that must be met precisely. Even small errors, health issues, or misunderstandings can lead to delays or denials. With the help of a knowledgeable immigration lawyer, you can avoid costly mistakes and pursue lawful permanent residency with confidence.
At Westover Law Firm, we provide honest and experienced legal guidance for every stage of the immigration process. Located in Mesa, we’ve helped thousands of individuals and families since 2008.
Looking Ahead: From Green Card to Citizenship
Getting your green card is only the beginning. Once you have permanent resident status, the next milestone is becoming a U.S. citizen.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating the citizenship test in October 2025, with new questions and testing procedures.
Staying informed early helps applicants prepare with confidence and avoid surprises when the time comes to apply for naturalization.
Learn what’s changing in the new U.S. citizenship test.
Contact Westover Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward lawful permanent residency and, eventually, U.S. citizenship.
