Trump tightens Green Card rules, many applicants may have to leave US
Babushahi Bureau
Washington DC (US), May 23, 2026: The administration of Donald Trump has announced a major overhaul of the US green card process, requiring most foreign nationals seeking permanent residency to return to their home countries to complete applications.
Under the new policy issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, approvals from within the United States will now be allowed only in exceptional circumstances.
The decision is expected to affect a large number of people legally residing in the US on temporary visas, including international students, foreign workers and spouses of American citizens.
Officials said applicants for permanent residency will largely have to undergo consular processing abroad instead of completing the process from inside the country.
Immigration advocates have raised concerns that the move could separate families for extended periods, as overseas processing often takes several months or longer.
USCIS stated that exemptions may still be granted in cases involving economic benefit or national interest, though it remains unclear whether H-1B visa holders and other skilled workers will qualify.
The policy marks another major shift in the Trump administration’s immigration strategy, expanding tighter controls beyond illegal immigration to legal immigration pathways as well.