Deportation (sometimes called removal) is the expulsion of a foreigner from the U.S. by means of a formal government action; this is done if the alien has been found in violation of certain immigration or criminal laws. There are alternatives to Deportation, including voluntary departure, cancellation of removal, adjustment of residential status, stays of deportation, asylum, and legalization and registration. An alien has legal rights throughout removal proceedings, including the right to contest the removal itself.