I Am Not A U.S. Citizen And I Registered To Vote And Voted In An Election, What Can Happen To Me?
Voting rights in the United States are reserved for citizens. Registering to vote and casting ballots in federal, state, or local elections without citizenship are serious offenses. If you’re a non-citizen who has unknowingly or intentionally voted, there are severe legal consequences that you must understand.
Legal Boundaries for Non-Citizen Voting
Voting in U.S. elections as a non-citizen is a violation of federal and state laws. The law is clear: only U.S. citizens may participate in federal and, in most cases, state elections. Engaging in the voting process as a non-citizen can lead to severe penalties. Here, we highlight the top 5 implications of unlawful voting for non-citizens.
Top 1: Deportation and Immigration Consequences
Engaging in the voting process as a non-citizen is a deportable offense under sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This means that legal permanent residents, visa holders, and undocumented individuals who vote can face removal proceedings. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has the authority to initiate these proceedings once the unlawful voting is discovered, which can lead to a person being removed from the United States and potentially barred from re-entry for a significant period, if not permanently.
Top 2: Criminal Charges and Penalties
Unlawfully voting in U.S. elections constitutes a federal offense. Conviction can result in serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The specific charges might include false representation of citizenship or fraudulently attempting to vote. The severity of the penalties often hinges on the details of the case, such as whether the individual knowingly and willfully misrepresented themselves as a U.S. citizen to vote.
Top 3: Impact on Naturalization
Participation in elections by non-citizens can be deemed as a lack of good moral character, a critical requirement for naturalization. This can not only lead to the denial of a citizenship application but can also affect other immigration benefits. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) scrutinizes an individual’s entire immigration history, and evidence of unlawful voting can significantly hinder one’s ability to obtain U.S. citizenship or other forms of legal status.
Top 4: Permanent Bar from Re-entry
In cases where deportation is the consequence of unlawful voting, the individual may also face a permanent bar from re-entering the United States. This is one of the most severe penalties, as it effectively prevents the individual from returning to the U.S. for any purpose, including visits, work, or living with family.
Top 5: Adverse Impact on Future Immigration Benefits
The repercussions of unlawful voting extend beyond immediate penalties to affect future immigration benefits. This act can be used as evidence against individuals in future immigration applications, including green card renewals or petitions for family members. The stain on one’s immigration record can be difficult to overcome, making it harder to secure other forms of legal status in the future.
What if I Voted Unknowingly?
Even if you didn’t intentionally register or vote while ineligible, the consequences remain serious. Unfortunately, not knowing the voting eligibility laws does not excuse the action. If discovered, you could still face prosecution or removal proceedings.
Espinoza Law Offices, with a team of dedicated immigration lawyers in Lakeland, FL, offers comprehensive legal services to navigate the complexities of immigration law. Here are some of the ways they can help you…
Preventative Counseling
To avoid the pitfalls of unintentional legal violations, seeking advice before taking any action that might affect your immigration status is wise. Espinoza Law Offices can provide clear guidance on what activities are permissible for non-citizens.
Defense Against Deportation
If you find yourself facing deportation due to unlawful voting, having a skilled abogado de deportacion on your side is crucial. Our attorneys are equipped to present the strongest defense possible, aiming for a favorable outcome.
Naturalization Assistance
For those seeking to become a U.S. citizen, our team can ensure that your application is correctly filed and that you are fully prepared for the naturalization process, minimizing the risk of any issues that could jeopardize your eligibility.
Choosing Espinoza Law Offices
The act of voting is a profound responsibility that carries significant legal obligations and consequences, especially for non-U.S. citizens. The potential repercussions of unlawful voting underscore the importance of adhering strictly to the law and seeking knowledgeable legal counsel. At Espinoza Law Offices, we are committed to providing our clients with the support and guidance necessary to navigate the complexities of immigration law safely. If you or someone you know requires assistance in this regard, contact us. Let us help you ensure that your actions today do not jeopardize your dreams for tomorrow.