The U.S. government has announced new immigration rules that significantly alter how temporary visa holders apply for permanent residency, commonly known as green cards.
Previously, under Section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, immigrants could apply for green cards while already living in the United States. Under the new rules, applicants will now be required to return to their home countries while their cases are reviewed. They will then receive immigrant visas from the State Department before re‑entering the U.S.
Remaining in the U.S. during the application process will become far less common. Immigration officials will evaluate each case individually, limiting exceptions.
Joseph Edlow, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), explained that the changes aim to enforce the original intent of immigration law and address overwhelming backlogs. He noted that asylum applications alone have surged to 1.5 million, up from 400,000 in 2021.
The new rules are expected to reshape how thousands of immigrants pursue permanent residency, adding complexity and requiring international travel. While the government frames the move as a way to restore order, critics may see it as another barrier for those seeking stability in the U.S.