Major changes to U.S. immigration rules have been introduced, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rolling out new guidelines that significantly tighten the pathway to permanent residency for migrants living in the United States on temporary visas.
The policy, introduced under the Donald Trump administration, affects how foreign nationals transition from temporary visa status to Green Card eligibility.
Under the previous system, many eligible migrants could apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. through a process known as “adjustment of status.” However, the new guidance largely removes that option.
New requirements for Green Card applicants
Going forward, most migrants on temporary visas seeking permanent residency will be required to:
- Return to their home countries
- Apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. State Department abroad
- Complete all screening and processing outside the United States
- Re-enter the country as lawful permanent residents after approval
USCIS says only individuals facing “extraordinary circumstances” will be exempt from the new requirement.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow defended the policy, stating that it restores the original intent of U.S. immigration law and reinforces the distinction between temporary admission and permanent residency.
A USCIS spokesperson, Zach Kahler, also said the change is aimed at reducing cases where applicants remain in the country after their residency petitions are denied.
The updated guidance applies to applications under the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 245(a), which previously allowed eligible migrants to apply for Green Cards from within the United States.
The development marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy and is expected to affect thousands of migrants currently residing in the country on temporary visas.