.png){kind=logo}
Deportation can feel like a storm that tears everything apart—your home, your family, your dreams. But it doesn’t have to mean the end. Even when it feels impossible, there are steps you can take to protect your family, find help, and start rebuilding your life.
This guide is here to help you figure out what to do next. Whether you’re still in the U.S. or have been sent back to your home country, there are resources, strategies, and people ready to support you.
Know Your Legal Options
One of the first things to do after a deportation is to understand your legal rights and options. Even though it feels like the system has turned its back on you, there may still be ways to keep your family together or reunite in the future.
Can You Appeal the Deportation?
If you’ve recently been deported, you might be able to file an appeal or a “Motion to Reopen.” This is especially true if:
There’s new evidence, like a change in your situation.
Your lawyer didn’t represent you properly.
You didn’t get a fair hearing.
Appeals are time-sensitive, though, so don’t wait too long. A family I worked with once thought it was too late to do anything, but we found out they still had time to file a motion. With the right help, they were able to stop further deportations and bring one parent back.
Protecting Family Members Who Are Still in the U.S.
If part of your family is still here, you’ll want to keep them safe. Some options to explore include:
Visas for crime victims (U Visa): If you or your family members have been victims of a crime, you may qualify for legal protection.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS): Some immigrants from countries facing crises (like wars or natural disasters) can stay legally under TPS.
An immigration attorney or local nonprofit can help you figure out what’s available for your family.
Help Your Children Cope with Deportation
Deportation is especially hard on kids. They might feel scared, confused, or even guilty. As a parent, you can help them understand what’s happening and support them emotionally.
Talk to Your Kids in an Honest, Simple Way
It’s important to explain what’s going on in a way they can understand. Avoid hiding the truth—it can make things more confusing later. You might say something like:“Mommy has to live in another place for now, but I love you very much and will always find ways to be with you.”
Keep a Sense of Routine and Stability
Kids feel safer when their daily life is predictable. Try to keep them in the same school, with the same friends, or doing the same activities as much as possible.
I once worked with a mother whose deportation left her two kids in the care of their aunt. By keeping the kids in their school and sticking to their bedtime routines, the aunt helped them feel less anxious, even during such a big change.
Find Emotional Support for Everyone
You and your family don’t have to go through this alone. There are resources out there to help with the emotional toll of deportation.
Counseling and Mental Health Services
Look for free or low-cost counseling programs in your area. Many immigrant-focused organizations offer therapy in your language, especially for children who might struggle with trauma.
Support Groups for Immigrants
Sharing your experience with others who have been through the same thing can be healing. Support groups can help you feel less alone and give you practical advice from people who understand.
Stay Connected Across Borders
If you’ve been deported but your family is still in the U.S., staying connected is critical. Technology can help you bridge the distance.
Use Technology to Keep in Touch
Apps like WhatsApp and Zoom can make it easier to see and talk to your family every day. Video calls can help you feel closer, even when you’re far away.
One family I know sets a schedule to talk every evening. Even though they live in different countries, their kids still get to hear their dad’s voice every night before bed.
Find Financial Stability
Deportation often leaves families struggling financially, but there are ways to get help and build stability.
Local Resources for Immediate Help
Food banks: These can provide groceries to feed your family when money is tight.
Housing programs: Some charities help immigrants find affordable housing or avoid eviction.
Nonprofits for immigrants: Many organizations can help you with basic needs while you get back on your feet.
Look for Remote Work Opportunities
If you’ve been deported but still want to support your family financially, remote work could be an option. Jobs like online teaching, writing, or customer service don’t require you to be in the U.S.
One father I worked with started teaching English online after being deported. It not only provided income but also gave him a sense of purpose and connection to his family.
Keep Fighting for Family Reunification
Even after deportation, there are legal paths to reunite your family. It may take time, but it’s possible.
Apply for Family Reunification Visas
If you have close relatives in the U.S., they may be able to sponsor you for a family visa. This process can take years, but starting early is important.
Work with an Immigration Attorney
Organizations like RAICES and Al Otro Lado specialize in providing legal aid to immigrants. They can guide you through reentry options and ensure your case is handled correctly.
Plan for the Future
Deportation can feel like the end, but it can also be a new beginning. Planning for what’s next can give you hope and direction.
Focus on Skills and Education
Whether you’re in your home country or the U.S., building your skills can open up opportunities. Look for free or affordable programs to learn new job skills or improve your education.
Prepare for Future Immigration Opportunities
Immigration laws change all the time. Staying informed and keeping your documents organized can make it easier to apply for legal status in the future.
Helpful Resources for Families
Here are some organizations and programs that can help families affected by deportation:
RAICES: Provides legal and social services for immigrants.
Catholic Charities: Offers housing, food, and counseling support.
Al Otro Lado: Focuses on legal help for deported families.
Local immigrant advocacy groups: Many communities have small organizations that can provide direct support.
You’re Not Alone
Deportation can feel like it’s destroyed everything, but you have the power to rebuild your family’s future. Take one step at a time, reach out for help, and don’t give up.
Remember, you’re stronger than you think—and there are people and resources ready to support you every step of the way.
Comments