How a Shoplifting Charge Could Affect Your Immigration Status

 Posted on July 18, 2025 in Immigration

New immigration laws have vastly changed the immigration landscape across the United States. If you are a non-citizen facing a shoplifting charge, the consequences could potentially go far beyond a simple fine or even a few days in jail. While shoplifting is generally considered a minor offense, it can have serious immigration consequences, including delays in obtaining a green card, visa denials, or even deportation.

Whether you are a lawful permanent resident, a DACA recipient, or an undocumented immigrant, it is extremely important to understand how a shoplifting charge (Texas Penal Code Title 7, Chapter 31) could jeopardize your ability to remain in the United States. An experienced Grand Prairie, TX immigration lawyer who also practices criminal law is your best hope for a positive outcome in this situation.

What Is the Laken Riley Act?

A new immigration law, known as the Laken Riley Act, was signed into law in January 2025. The Act mandates the detention and deportation of non-citizen immigrants who are arrested or charged with theft (including shoplifting), even before a conviction. The Laken Riley Act significantly expands the scope of immigration enforcement by including minor offenses, such as shoplifting, as grounds for detention and deportation, even in the absence of a conviction for the offense.

What Are the Potential Immigration Consequences of Shoplifting Charges?

One of the conditions for holding a U.S.-issued immigrant visa is following all laws, both federal and state. If a visa holder fails to do so, then even shoplifting charges can trigger removal proceedings. Under federal immigration laws, theft crimes are contrary to community standards of good moral character. In addition to deportation, some other consequences of shoplifting charges may include:

• The non-citizen becomes inadmissible to the United States and could be denied entry.
• It can become much more difficult to obtain a visa, or even renew a current visa, including a work visa.
• It can affect the ability to adjust to permanent resident status (green card).
• Even when a conviction is expunged or sealed, it can still be considered for immigration purposes.
• The non-citizen may not be permitted to re-enter the United States for 5-20 years following deportation, even on a visitor visa.
• Even those who have already obtained a green card must be aware of the potential impact of being convicted of a crime, as they could also face removal proceedings under certain circumstances.

Defenses and Legal Strategies for Those Facing Immigration Consequences for Shoplifting Charges

Experienced immigration attorneys will explore every option to try to mitigate the impact of shoplifting charges or any other criminal charges. These strategies may include negotiating a plea deal for a lesser charge, participating in a diversion program that prevents a conviction, or aggressively contesting the charges in court.

It is essential not to plead guilty without first consulting a lawyer. Ensure an immigration attorney is involved early in the process, and that all documents supporting an immigration case are organized and complete. While a shoplifting charge may seem minor, it can have life-altering consequences for non-citizens.

Contact a Tarrant County, TX Immigration Lawyer

If you are facing shoplifting charges or any other type of criminal charges, the sooner you speak to an immigration and criminal lawyer, the better off you will be. Having a Fort Worth, TX immigration attorney from The Meza Law Firm, PLLC who also practices criminal law affords you the best of both worlds and ensures your case gets the attention it deserves.

Attorney Meza has extensive experience in both criminal and immigration law, offering clients highly personalized, dedicated, one-on-one guidance and assistance. He understands the special challenges faced by immigrants when arrested and knows what must be done immediately to safeguard their status. Call 817-732-6392 to schedule a consultation. Hablamos Espanol.