Texas White Collar Crimes and Their Impact on Non-Citizens

 Posted on November 16, 2025 in Immigration

White-collar crimes tend to be thought of as "non-violent" and, therefore, less serious. While this is true in some cases, for non-citizens living in Texas, white-collar criminal charges may actually carry the harshest immigration consequences. Crimes involving fraud, deception, or financial loss can result in deportation, mandatory detention, denial of naturalization, visa revocation, and may bar the individual from returning to the United States.

Non-citizens, including permanent residents, visa holders, DACA recipients, and undocumented individuals, must understand what is at stake before making any decisions in a criminal case. Speaking to an experienced North Richland Hills, TX immigration attorney who also practices criminal law is the best step you can take if you are facing criminal charges.

What Are Some Common White-Collar Crimes That Can Trigger Immigration Issues?

There are many different white-collar crimes, but some of the more common ones include:

• Credit card fraud or check fraud
• Identity theft
• Auto insurance fraud
• Medical insurance fraud
• Wire fraud
• Computer crimes
• Online scams
• Employee theft
• Embezzlement
• Accounting fraud
• Federal benefits fraud
• Tax fraud
• Online scams involving Facebook Marketplace, Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp

Any offense that involves trickery, dishonesty, or misrepresentation is considered a crime of moral turpitude and can lead to immigration problems.

Why Are White-Collar Crimes Especially Dangerous for Non-Citizens?

Unlike many other misdemeanor or felony offenses, white-collar crimes almost always involve intentional deception, misrepresentation, or financial harm. Under federal law, these elements categorize these offenses as crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs). While the time behind bars may not be extensive for the offense, the immigration consequences can be devastating. Even a minor offense can quickly derail a green card or visa renewal application.

Potential Consequences of a White-Collar Crime Conviction for a Non-Citizen

Under federal law, a non-citizen can be deported for a conviction of a CIMT or an aggravated felony involving fraud with $10,000 or more in losses. These situations can also render an immigrant inadmissible for applying for naturalization, a visa, or a green card. In some cases, a white-collar conviction can result in mandatory ICE detention and/or USCIS denial of benefits due to "fraud indicators." One CIMT within five years of admission can result in removal, or two CIMTs at any time can result in removal.

Defense Strategies for Non-Citizens Charged with White-Collar Crimes

A knowledgeable attorney may be able to implement one or more of the following defense strategies:

• Removing terms like "intent to defraud" to potentially prevent a CIMT classification.
• Reducing the loss amount to below the $10,000 threshold avoids an aggravated felony.
• Substituting certain trespass or general theft-type offenses that do not include deception elements can remove the CIMT designation.
• Deferred adjudication may be used strategically to protect immigration status.
• Coordination between criminal and immigration defense is crucial.  

What Should a Non-Citizen Do if Charged with a White-Collar Crime in Texas?

If a non-citizen is charged with a white-collar crime in Texas – or any criminal offense – he or she should not talk to the authorities and should immediately ask for an attorney. The case should not even be discussed with friends or family members until an attorney has been consulted.

Both a criminal defense attorney experienced in crimes of moral turpitude and an immigration lawyer who understands the effect of a conviction or plea deal on immigration status should be consulted. All documents, emails, or financial records related to the charges should be preserved, as these will be crucial to the defense.

Contact a Tarrant County, TX Immigration Lawyer

If you are a non-citizen accused of a white-collar crime in Texas, the consequences can go far beyond fines or probation. A North Richland Hills, TX immigration and criminal defense attorney from The Meza Law Firm, PLLC understands both criminal law and the immigration fallout that may follow.

Attorney Meza has extensive experience in both criminal and immigration law, providing personalized guidance to each client. He is dedicated and will aggressively fight to keep families together, understanding the special challenges an immigrant faces when arrested. Call 817-732-6392 to schedule an initial attorney meeting. Hablamos Español.