not at worst............
- Unlawful Presence (Civil Violation): Remaining in the U.S. after a visa has expired (a common scenario for nearly half of all undocumented immigrants) is a civil infraction. This is handled through civil removal (deportation) proceedings, which do not carry criminal penalties like prison time, though they can result in being barred from re-entry for a number of years.
- Improper Entry (Crime): The act of entering or attempting to enter the U.S. at a place not designated for inspection by immigration officers is a federal misdemeanor offense.
- Re-entry After Removal (Crime): If an individual has been previously formally removed (deported) from the U.S. and then returns without authorization, that is a felony offense