The administration of Donald Trump has unveiled a major shift in U.S. immigration policy that would require most green card applicants already living in the United States to leave the country and complete their applications from their home countries.
The directive, issued through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is being described as one of the most significant changes to the American immigration system in recent years.
Under the new policy, the long-standing “adjustment of status” process which previously allowed eligible immigrants to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. will now be limited to what officials called “extraordinary circumstances.” Instead, applicants will be expected to undergo consular processing through U.S. embassies and consulates in their countries of origin.
International media reports indicate that the policy could affect more than one million immigrants currently seeking permanent residency. Those potentially impacted include skilled workers, spouses of U.S. citizens, international students, and holders of employment-based visas who are already living and working legally in the country.
Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups have warned that the new rules may create serious disruptions for affected applicants. Concerns have been raised over possible family separations, prolonged visa processing delays, and uncertainty for immigrants who had already begun the residency process under the previous system.
The Department of Homeland Security defended the decision, saying the changes are intended to restore what it described as the original purpose of U.S. immigration law while tightening oversight of the system. USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler said the agency plans to focus on stronger vetting procedures, national security considerations, and more efficient management of immigration resources.
Critics, however, argue that the policy could place vulnerable individuals at risk. Human rights and immigration advocacy organizations, including HIAS, said the directive may force migrants, trafficking survivors, and people from politically unstable countries to return to unsafe environments while waiting for visa approvals.
Legal analysts also expect the policy to face multiple court challenges in the coming weeks, particularly over concerns about due process and humanitarian protections.
The move comes amid broader immigration crackdowns introduced under the Trump administration, including expanded travel restrictions affecting several countries. A recent White House proclamation identified nations facing partial or full entry suspensions over security and vetting concerns, with Nigeria listed among countries affected by partial restrictions on certain visa categories.
Despite growing concerns, immigration authorities clarified that the directive does not automatically deport all green card applicants currently living in the United States. Existing lawful permanent residents remain exempt from the changes, while some applicants may still qualify for waivers based on humanitarian grounds, national interest considerations, or economic benefit to the country.
