The non-permanent resident must have resided continuously in the United States for a period of at least ten (10) years before the initiation of removal proceedings.

This period is measured from the date of entry into the United States in ANY status (including without inspection).

But, the continuous resident is “cut off” when the non-citizen commits a disqualifying offense (doesn’t even have to be convicted), or when they are issued a “Notice to Appear” (NTA) commencing removal proceedings, whichever comes first.

However, recent developments in Supreme Court case law has further complicated the issue of what constitutes a proper NTA that cuts off the continuous residence.

An applicant for non-LPR cancellation of removal  must also demonstrate “good moral character” during the required ten-year period.

“Good moral character” is a legal standard and certain activities or convictions during the statutory period may bar the applicant from demonstrating “good moral character” in the legal sense.

Finally, the applicant must prove that their removal would result in “exceptional and extremely unusual” hardship to their spouse, parent, or child (unmarried child under the age of 21) who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.  Hardships to other relatives will not be considered.

This hardship must be beyond the normal hardships that would typically be expected if the individual were to be deported (i.e. separation from family).

Medical problems, educational hardships for children, and mental health issues, should all be explored in detail for each qualifying relative.

Because each case is unique and each applicant’s qualifying relatives’ hardships will be unique, it is important to discuss these issues openly and honestly with an immigration lawyer, who can help you further strengthen your case.

Pay a filing fee and file an application with the immigration court

Unlike other benefits applications (like adjustment of status, asylum, or naturalization), an application for cancellation of removal cannot be filed directly with USCIS.

To apply for cancellation of removal, a non-permanent resident must pay the filing fee for and submit Form EOIR-42B, Application for Cancellation of Removal for Certain Permanent Residents, to the immigration court handling their removal case.

Attend a hearing on the merits of the application

During the court proceedings, the applicant will need to present evidence supporting their eligibility for cancellation of removal, such as documents proving continuous residence, employment history, tax records, community involvement, and testimonials to establish their good moral character.

If there is any criminal history, the judge will also ask to see the final dispositions of any arrests to see whether they disqualify the applicant.

Additionally, it is essential for the applicant to gather evidence demonstrating the “exceptional and extremely unusual” hardship that would befall their qualifying relative(s) if the applicant was deported.

This is probably the most important part of the case, as the applicant will have to rely on a judge to decide whether the hardships to qualifying relative(s) meet the “exceptional and extremely unusual” hardship standard.

Further complicating the process is the fact that there is an annual quota on how many non-permanent resident visas can be issued.

If a judge wants to grant a non-LPR cancellation case, he or she must first request a visa and then wait behind other judges who requested the same.

Waiting for the visa can take several years.

This can be frustrating if you only have one qualifying relative, for example, a child, who turns 21 years old, or an elderly parent or a spouse who dies while waiting for the visa to become available.

Cancellation of removal for non-permanent residents offers a potential lifeline for individuals facing deportation, who may otherwise not be eligible for any other relief.

By meeting the eligibility requirements and presenting a strong case to the immigration court, non-permanent residents may be able to overcome removal proceedings and become lawful permanent residents.

However, navigating the cancellation of removal process can be intricate, and seeking legal assistance from an experienced immigration attorney is highly advisable to ensure the best chance of success.

Remember, this article provides a general overview of cancellation of removal for non-permanent residents, and individual cases can vary significantly.  No two cancellation of removal cases are alike.

Click here to read about the process for lawful permanent resident (LPR) cancellation of removal.