USCIS Implements New Green Card Application Rules
The U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented a policy requiring most green card applicants to apply through consular processing in their home countries, limiting the use of adjustment of status within the United States to exceptional cases, according to The New York Times. The Trump administration announced this shift, ending the longstanding practice of allowing applicants to adjust their status while remaining in the U. S. , as reported by NPR.
Business Insider noted that USCIS restricted adjustment of status eligibility to 'extraordinary circumstances,' which could compel many applicants to leave the country for processing, sparking debate among immigration stakeholders. The New York Times reiterated the administration's policy change, emphasizing the requirement for applicants to apply from their home countries. The Washington Post highlighted concerns about potential processing delays and the discouragement this policy might cause among immigrants seeking legal status. CNN reported that these policy changes created uncertainty for many applicants, including families planning to expand. In response to significant backlash, CBS News conveyed that the administration clarified the new policy, stating it reflects existing laws rather than introducing new restrictions.