Legal Question in Immigration Law in Washington

immigratnt wants to return to Mexico

I know an illegal immigrant who wants to leave the us permanantly.

He was told that even if he goes to the airport with a current passport he will be arrested. Is this true?

or will they allow him to leave.

He came to the US at 8 yrs old with

a valid visa.


Asked on 2/16/09, 7:22 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Thuong-Tri Nguyen Thuong-Tri Legal Services, PLLC

Re: immigratnt wants to return to Mexico

Unless he is a wanted criminal or taking children who do not want to go with him, US officials likely will not do anything to him if he is getting on a plane to leave the US. Since an alien voluntarily leaving the US will save the US the troubles of going through the procedures to remove the alien, the US likely will not prevent the alien from peacefully leaving.

If he wants to stay in the US, he may want to review his facts with an attorney to see if he has any basis to adjust status while remaining in the US.

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Answered on 2/16/09, 8:43 pm
Amir John Showrai The Pacific Law Firm, PLLC

Re: immigratnt wants to return to Mexico

I would be very surprised if a departing immigrant were to be detained at the airport. The only scenarios that I can envision when this would happen are if he is wanted by law enforcement.

Let me put it this way. Other than wanted persons, I've never heard of anyone being detained while attempting to depart the country.

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Answered on 2/17/09, 12:00 am


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