Short answer: accruing US unlawful presence of 180 days or one year and then departing can trigger 3- or 10-year bars. Counting and exceptions are complex — take counsel before departing if at risk.
Unlawful Presence 3- and 10-Year Bars
Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director
Summary
Leaving after enough unlawful presence can trigger re-entry bans.
FAQ
Stay inside and never leave?
Problems accumulate; later departure may still trigger bars.
Waivers?
Possible with qualifying relationships and hardship proof.
Student overstay?
Days after status ends need case-specific counting.