Crimes of moral turpitude (CMTs) are offenses that go against accepted moral standards. These crimes typically involve dishonesty, fraud or actions that show a disregard for others. In immigration law, being charged with or convicted of a CMT can result in severe consequences, including denial of entry, removal or ineligibility for certain immigration benefits.
Although there is no fixed list of CMTs in U.S. immigration law, past court decisions and immigration rulings help determine which crimes fall into this category.
What types of crimes are included?
Common examples of crimes of moral turpitude include:
- Theft or fraud (such as shoplifting, embezzlement or credit card fraud)
- Crimes involving intent to harm someone (like assault with a deadly weapon)
- Sexual offenses (including lewd conduct or certain types of abuse)
- Perjury or bribery
These offenses typically show an intent to deceive, hurt or exploit others. Even if the punishment is minor, the nature of the offense may still qualify it as a CMT.
What crimes usually don’t qualify?
Not every crime involves moral turpitude. Simple assault, driving without a license or public intoxication often do not qualify. Offenses based on negligence, like some traffic violations, are also unlikely to be considered CMTs.
Are there borderline cases?
Some crimes fall into a gray area. For example, domestic violence or drug possession charges may or may not be seen as involving moral turpitude, depending on the facts and how the law defines the offense.
Even a single CMT can affect a person’s immigration status. Multiple convictions, or one with a sentence over a year, may trigger removal proceedings or block a green card or visa. The details of the charge, the sentence and the timing all play a role in the outcome.