America Tightens Green Card Process, Foreign Nationals Must Apply From Home Country

Washington: According to the new policy of USCIS, now foreign citizens living in America on student, work or any temporary visa will not be able to apply for Green Card, i.e., permanent residency, from there. They will have to go back to their country and complete the process through the US State Department.

Why did the government take this decision?

The Homeland Security Department says that with this change the immigration system will run according to the law. The government claims that this will prevent unfair advantage of legal loopholes and USCIS will be able to make better use of its resources.

Who will be affected the most?

This will have a direct impact on thousands of people who are living in America on student visas, H-1B work visa or other temporary visas and were in the green card process. Now they may have to return to their country to apply. This is a big blow for people who have got job, education and are settled.

Why did human rights organizations express concern?

Many immigration help groups, including HIAS, have criticized this policy. They say that victims of human trafficking, exploited children and people who have come from dangerous countries to save their lives will also be forced to go back. It may be risky for them to return to their country.

What steps has the Trump administration already taken?

In the last year, the Trump government has been continuously increasing strictness on immigration. Earlier, the duration of student visas, cultural exchange visas, and media visas was reduced. In January itself, the US State Department had canceled more than 1 lakh visas.

Can anyone get exemption?

USCIS has said that relief may be granted on a case-by-case basis in very exceptional circumstances. But in general the rules will now be stricter than before.

What is the meaning of this?

Simply put, now the wait for a green card by staying in America is over. If you want permanent residency, you will have to first return home and then go through a long process.