The U.S. government enforces strict rules against “crimes of moral turpitude” (CMTs). These crimes typically involve fraud, theft or the intent to harm people or property. They come with severe penalties and can often result in deportation. One of the often overlooked offenses is tax crimes. While they may seem less severe than violent crimes, they are financial crimes that can have significant consequences.
The consequences could be significant if an individual is found guilty of tax crimes. It can disrupt the lives of noncitizens and threaten their chances of remaining in the U.S.
Tax crimes are deportable crimes
In U.S. immigration law, tax crimes are considered CMTs. These are often actions of deceit against the government. The Department of State’s guidelines split these types of CMTs into two primary categories: crimes against property and crimes against governmental authority. Due to their fraudulent nature, tax crimes can fall into both these categories.
Here are some examples of tax-related offenses that are considered CMTs:
- Fraud against revenue or other government functions: This refers to deceptive actions that disrupt government operations, such as producing false documents to alter income or deductions.
- Mail fraud: This involves using postal services to perform deceptive activities, like sending false tax documents.
- Willful tax evasion: This is the deliberate act of not paying taxes owed to the government, particularly when the amount exceeds $10,000.
For immigrants, engaging in such crimes could jeopardize their immigration status in the U.S.
A conviction can result in deportation
Criminal charges, especially those related to tax crimes, significantly heighten an immigrant’s risk of removal from the U.S. In fact, aggravated felonies like tax evasion can even result in this outcome. Given these grave consequences, it’s crucial for immigrants to be extraordinarily careful with their tax-related decisions. A charge of tax evasion or other tax-related crimes can lead to unfavorable results, including the potential for removal from the country. So, maintaining integrity in one’s actions is essential, as it protects not only one’s personal reputation but also the right to live in the U.S.