US Requires Most Green Card Applicants to Apply From Abroad
Under the new guidance, USCIS said that requests to adjust immigration status inside the US should only be approved in “extraordinary circumstances,” with each case subject to individual review based on specific factors and available information.
“We’re returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation’s immigration system properly,” USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler said in a statement.
“From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances,” he added.
The policy applies to nonimmigrant categories such as international students, temporary workers, and tourists, who are typically admitted for limited stays and specific purposes, with USCIS stating that such visits should not serve as an initial step toward permanent residency.
“Their visit should not function as the first step in the Green Card process,” Kahler said.
The move drew criticism from immigrant rights advocates, who warned it could separate families, create additional procedural barriers, and leave some applicants facing prolonged delays or risks upon returning to their home countries.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
