US Immigration Crackdown Sparks Alarming Detention Risks And Growing Anxiety For Green Card Holders

Published on May 6, 2025

The Trump administration’s immigration crackdown is creating growing anxiety and uncertainty for green card holders, especially those traveling through US airports and ports of entry. With stricter border policies and increased scrutiny, green card holders are facing unprecedented risks of detention, delays, and even pressure to relinquish their legal status. As the rules become more unpredictable and aggressive, lawful permanent residents are now forced to navigate a more hostile and uncertain immigration environment, leading many to reconsider their travel plans and their security when crossing US borders.

The Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies are raising significant concerns for green card holders, especially those traveling through US airports and ports of entry. Reports of detentions, as well as growing pressure on lawful permanent residents to relinquish their legal status, are intensifying anxiety among this group of travelers. These policies have created an increasingly uncertain environment, even for those with valid permanent resident status, as rules become more stringent and unpredictable.

A green card, or Permanent Resident Card, is a legal designation that allows foreign nationals to live and work permanently in the United States. Historically, green card holders could travel freely in and out of the US without much concern. However, under the Trump administration, stricter enforcement of border controls and a broader interpretation of what constitutes a “risk” have led to delays, detentions, and legal challenges for these individuals. As these immigration rules continue to tighten, even those legally residing in the country are facing difficulties.

As defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), green card holders enjoy a number of benefits, including the right to live and work in the US, eligibility for Social Security and Medicare, and the opportunity to apply for US citizenship after maintaining five years of legal residency—three years if married to a US citizen. To qualify for citizenship, green card holders must remain in the country for a minimum of 913 days during the required residency period. Additionally, they are eligible for student financial aid and even the opportunity to serve in the US military. As of January 1, 2024, there were an estimated 12.8 million green card holders in the United States, marking a slight increase from the previous year. These residents are required by law to carry their green card with them at all times.

Despite these rights, green card holders are not without restrictions when it comes to travel. Those who commit serious criminal offenses—ranging from minor traffic violations to more severe felonies—risk being denied re-entry into the country or even deported. This risk is heightened under the Trump administration’s tough stance on immigration.

In line with its broader agenda, the US has introduced what is known as “advanced vetting” at airports and other points of entry. These policies have contributed to an uptick in detentions and deportations, and some nations, including Germany, have updated their travel advisories in response to these developments. These changes have sparked concerns that lawful residents could face increased scrutiny and even legal challenges, particularly when traveling outside the US.

One particularly concerning policy development came in April 2024, when the Department of Homeland Security introduced additional measures to monitor immigrants’ social media activity. Under these new rules, any evidence of green card holders “endorsing, espousing, promoting, or supporting antisemitic terrorism” could lead to the denial of immigration benefits. This includes individuals applying for permanent residency or student visas. The rules have already affected green card holders and students, particularly those with affiliations to institutions or groups tied to controversial political causes. In recent months, a number of pro-Palestinian protesters—many of whom are green card holders—have been arrested or detained under these new regulations, raising concerns about the broader implications for freedom of expression and political activism.

Given the increasingly volatile landscape for green card holders, immigration experts are urging individuals to take precautions when traveling abroad. One critical piece of advice is to apply for a reentry permit if planning to be outside the US for an extended period, particularly for over six months. This permit serves as proof that the traveler intends to maintain their US residency status. If the reentry permit is not received before departure, it is advisable to carry proof of the application with them to avoid complications at the border.

The uncertainty surrounding these policies underscores the shifting nature of US immigration law, particularly for green card holders. While they still enjoy the rights to live and work in the US, their ability to travel freely has been greatly affected by the tightening of immigration controls. Those wishing to maintain their legal residency must now navigate a maze of evolving regulations and heightened scrutiny that could complicate their travel plans.

Green card holders should also be aware that their legal status is not entirely secure in the face of these developments. Recent reports suggest that some green card holders who have been detained have been pressured to give up their permanent residency as part of the detainment process. This could leave individuals in a precarious situation, forced to choose between giving up their right to live and work in the US or facing potential deportation.

The Trump administration’s immigration crackdown is causing rising anxiety among green card holders, with heightened scrutiny and travel risks at US borders. Detentions and legal uncertainties are forcing permanent residents to rethink their travel plans.

The immigration crackdown under the Trump administration has made travel increasingly difficult for green card holders, who now face an uncertain and sometimes hostile environment when crossing US borders. As immigration policies continue to evolve, permanent residents must stay informed about their rights and take the necessary precautions to protect their status. With heightened vetting, social media monitoring, and the risk of being detained or even deported, green card holders must be cautious when planning international trips and ensure that they are fully prepared for any eventuality that may arise at a US port of entry.