A new policy requires immigrants to apply for green cards from their home countries, creating concern and confusion. The change affects both immigrants and their legal advocates.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that only in “extraordinary circumstances” will those already in the U.S. be able to secure permanent residency. Generally, applicants must now apply at a U.S. consulate in their native countries.

Immigration attorneys and advocacy groups expect a reduction in green card applications due to this policy. In 2024, over 1.4 million green cards were issued, with more than 800,000 granted to individuals adjusting their status while in the U.S.

Immigrants married to U.S. citizens and those looking for permanent residency might face significant challenges. Charles Kuck, an immigration lawyer and former president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, highlighted that such individuals often handle their immigration issues while in the country. He described this move as an attempt to slow immigration and make the process more daunting.

USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler mentioned the policy aims to close a loophole where immigrants stay in the U.S. unlawfully after denial of residency.