Immigrants holding H-1B and other temporary visas in the U.S. are threatened by deportation risks on account of a new tax trend where income disclosed in old tax filings is being flagged by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Even minimal side earnings from past side jobs could trigger deportation and undermine visa renewals, making it worrisome for immigrants who have complied with tax law and yet face the risk of a penalty that would cost them their future.

Jobs done while on student or work visas and income generated from the same are under scrutiny, in spite of taxes having been duly and fully paid. Immigrants are summoned at ports of entry and consulates to explain the sources of their income from ‘unauthorized work’.

Minor traffic violations or any kind of visibility are inviting background checks, leading to strong legal action. The result of such investigations point to deportation.

Earlier, Schedule C income that included freelance consulting was under the scanner. Now, rental or partnership income is also being seriously looked into as active employment. – editor@nrifocus.com