Can a U.S. Citizen Be Deported by ICE? What You Need to Know in 2025

Executive Summary:

Many people think only immigrants can be deported, but it’s common to wonder: Can a U.S. citizen be deported? The truth is, U.S. citizens are almost always protected from deportation by law. However, in rare cases—such as when citizenship was obtained through fraud or false information—the government can take away that citizenship, and deportation may follow. In this article, we explain when this could happen, how Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plays a role, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. The team at Davis & Associates is ready to help you understand your rights and defend your future.

Are U.S. Citizens at Risk of Deportation?

Legally speaking, a person recognized as a U.S. citizen, whether by birth or naturalization, cannot be deported. Citizenship provides full protection under the U.S. Constitution. But that protection relies on the assumption that your citizenship is valid and lawfully obtained.

The only situations in which a citizen might be deported involve:

• Fraud or misrepresentation during the immigration process
• Voluntary renunciation of citizenship
• Challenges to citizenship status due to lack of documentation

While these cases are rare, they do happen and they can lead to serious legal consequences.

How Citizenship Can Be Revoked: Denaturalization Explained

If someone becomes a U.S. citizen through naturalization but is later found to have lied or withheld key information during the immigration process, the U.S. government can begin a process called denaturalization.

Examples of denaturalization include:

• Using false documents or fake identities on a green card or asylum application
• Failing to disclose a criminal record
• Concealing affiliations with terrorist groups or human rights violators

If a court rules that the naturalization was obtained fraudulently, the person can lose their citizenship status and become deportable under U.S. immigration law.

In 2025, ICE continues to prioritize fraud detection, and cases flagged for investigation can trigger denaturalization proceedings. That’s why it’s critical to resolve any past issues before they lead to action by ICE.

Can Dual Citizens Be Deported?

If you are a dual citizen of the U.S. and another country, your American citizenship remains valid unless you voluntarily renounce it or it is revoked due to fraud.

However, complications can arise if:

• You commit serious crimes in another country
• You serve in a foreign government or military in a way that violates U.S. laws
• You are accused of misrepresenting information on your immigration forms

Even in these cases, ICE cannot deport you unless your U.S. citizenship is lawfully removed through a court process.

Born Abroad? Your Citizenship May Be Questioned

People born abroad to U.S. citizen parents are often citizens by law. But in some situations, especially where documentation is incomplete or inconsistent, the government may question whether that citizenship was validly acquired.

If ICE cannot confirm your status, you may be detained or put into removal proceedings until you can prove your citizenship.

To avoid this:

• Keep original birth certificates, passports, and Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBAs)
• Gather proof of your parent(s)’ U.S. citizenship and residence
• Talk to an attorney if your documents are missing or incomplete

Can Green Card Holders Be Deported?

Yes. Unlike U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can be deported by ICE under a wide range of circumstances, including:

• Conviction of certain crimes
• Immigration violations or fraud
• Extended time spent outside the U.S. without reentry permits
• Failing to remove conditions on a conditional green card

If you’re a green card holder working toward citizenship, it’s important to avoid legal issues and consult an immigration attorney regularly to stay in compliance.

How to Protect Yourself From Deportation in 2025

To protect yourself from deportation in 2025, it’s important to keep all your legal documents, such as your passport, birth certificate, green card, or naturalization certificate—up to date and stored safely. Lost or expired documents can lead to unnecessary complications, especially if your citizenship or immigration status is ever questioned.

You should also avoid any actions that could raise red flags with ICE, such as criminal activity, lying on immigration forms, or failing to meet residency requirements. If you have a complex immigration history or concerns about your status, speaking with an experienced immigration attorney early can help you avoid serious consequences and stay protected.

Worried About Your Immigration Status? We Can Help.

At Davis & Associates, we understand how scary and overwhelming it can feel when your status or your family’s future is at risk. Whether you’re facing denaturalization, concerns about ICE, or struggling to prove your citizenship, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced immigration attorneys in Dallas and Houston are here to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and protect what matters most.

Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact us today to schedule your consultation and get the clarity and protection you deserve.