As individuals who have chosen the United States as our second home, we all share a common responsibility: to live in accordance with the law and to contribute to a safe, respectful, and thriving community. In light of recent concerns and circulating rumors, we want to reassure you: if you follow the law and fulfill your civic obligations, there is no reason for fear or worry. Below are some key reminders to help maintain your lawful immigration status and protect your rights as residents or citizens of the United States.
1. Obeying the Law and Upholding Ethical Standards
Whether you are a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident (with a 2-year or 10-year green card), or a newly arrived immigrant, it is critical to follow all federal, state, and local laws. Even minor legal violations may carry serious consequences — including potential revocation of your green card or, in extremely rare cases, denaturalization.
In addition to legal compliance, it is equally important to maintain moral integrity and ethical conduct, which not only protect you and your family but also help build a strong and positive image of the immigrant community in American society.
2. Tax Compliance
All lawful residents of the United States are required to file annual tax returns. Please ensure that you:
- File your taxes accurately and on time with the IRS.
- Report your income and deductions honestly.
- Consult a reputable tax professional if needed to avoid errors that could affect your immigration or naturalization status in the future.
3. Maintaining Continuous Residency
To preserve your status as a lawful permanent resident, you must:
- Maintain a permanent residence in the U.S., and retain supporting documents such as lease agreements or property titles.
- Keep active financial ties in the U.S., such as bank accounts, insurance, and credit cards.
Important: If you plan to be outside the U.S. for more than six months in a single trip, immigration officers may view this as an indication that you no longer intend to live in the U.S. permanently. To avoid this:
- Apply for a Re-entry Permit using Form I-131 before departing.
4. Keep All Identification Documents Up to Date
Be proactive about renewing your essential documents before they expire:
- Green Card: Renew within six months prior to expiration.
- Driver’s License or State ID: Renew within 60 days prior to expiration.
- Passports (Vietnamese or U.S.): Renew within nine months prior to expiration.
5. Selective Service Registration
If you are a male between the ages of 18 and 25, and are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident living in the U.S., you are required by law to register with the Selective Service System at www.sss.gov. This is not military enlistment but a legal requirement, and failure to comply may affect your eligibility for certain government benefits in the future.
A Final Reminder
Regardless of who is President, the fundamental principles above remain unchanged — these are the core responsibilities for maintaining lawful permanent residency or U.S. citizenship.
U.S. immigration policy may vary from one administration to another — it may become stricter or more lenient — but every presidential term lasts only four years. This is the beauty of American democracy: a system that renews itself, where citizens have a voice, and where your rights are protected as long as you follow the law. It is a privilege that millions around the world dream of but may never attain.
In Conclusion
We understand that building a life in a new country is not always easy. But with determination, integrity, and a sense of responsibility, we can create a secure and lasting future here in the United States. Don’t let fear or misinformation distract you — focus on living lawfully, filing taxes properly, maintaining your residency, and keeping your documents in good standing.
Our community is strongest when each of us does our part.
The Notes 
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