Deportation, also known as removal, is the formal legal process by which the U.S. government orders a non-citizen to be expelled from the country. Removal may be ordered for various reasons, most of which involve violations of U.S. immigration law. The deportation process can be challenging, emotionally complex, and frustrating.

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The process begins with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and can be initiated against any non-citizen, including those with nonimmigrant visas and green card holders. The case will then be heard in immigration court, overseen by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Depending on factors such as the defense strategy and other circumstances, a judge may either dismiss the deportation or allow it to proceed. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for enforcing removal orders.