Green Card Holders Win Major Legal Protection After Landmark Court Ruling
- Mati Lio
- Aug 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 12
Millions of lawful permanent residents in the U.S. gained a significant legal victory after the Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Department of Justice (DOJ) cannot unilaterally revoke Green Card status. The decision, delivered in Philadelphia on July 15, 2025, strengthens constitutional checks and reinforces due process protections for immigrants.
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What Prompted the Ruling
The case centered on New Jersey imam Mohammad Qatanani, whose Green Card had been under threat for years despite favorable immigration court decisions. During arguments earlier this year, DOJ attorneys claimed the Attorney General had the power to revoke a Green Card at any time, even decades after issuance.
This sweeping interpretation alarmed both immigrants and legal experts. Judges on the panel — including Circuit Judge Arianna Freeman — questioned whether such authority could lead to arbitrary targeting of long-term residents or even naturalized citizens.
Court’s Decisive Rejection of DOJ’s Argument
In its ruling, the court declared that the DOJ’s claimed power was “antithetical” to the separation of powers and beyond the authority granted by Congress. The judges reaffirmed that removing lawful permanent resident status must go through proper legal channels, not be decided by executive fiat.
Key takeaways from the decision:
Green Cards reaffirmed as stable legal status — not subject to arbitrary revocation.
Judicial oversight preserved — any status change must follow formal adjudication.
Protection from retroactive action — decades-old cases cannot be reopened at will by the Attorney General.
Broader Immigration Context
While the ruling provides relief for current Green Card holders, it comes amid a tightening immigration environment.
Family-based applications face more scrutiny — Since August 1, 2025, USCIS has intensified checks on marriage- and family-based petitions. Even approved petitions no longer guarantee legal status; ineligible applicants may be issued a Notice to Appear in removal proceedings.
Pending applications do not protect from deportation — Recent policy shifts allow authorities to initiate removal proceedings while a spouse-based petition is still in process.
Practical Steps for Green Card Holders and Applicants
1. Stay informed — Monitor legal updates and appeals that could influence how this precedent is applied.
2. Maintain strong documentation — Keep copies of all immigration records, approvals, and identification secure.
3. Ensure application accuracy — For marriage- or family-based cases, submit complete and convincing evidence to meet heightened scrutiny.
4. Seek legal advice promptly — An immigration attorney can help respond quickly to any status challenges.
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Bottom Line
The Third Circuit’s decision is a landmark win for immigrant rights, reestablishing that Green Card holders cannot have their status revoked by executive order alone. However, evolving immigration policies mean that both current and prospective permanent residents should remain vigilant, well-prepared, and legally informed.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available, credible sources at the time of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for guidance from a qualified immigration attorney. Immigration laws and policies may change without notice, and court rulings may be subject to appeal or further interpretation. Readers are encouraged to verify information directly from official government and court sources.
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Sources
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