The Trump administration has introduced new immigration guidance aimed at tightening the process through which migrants obtain permanent residency in the United States.
According to new directives issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), migrants currently in the U.S. on temporary visas who wish to become lawful permanent residents will generally be required to return to their home countries to complete the process.
Under the policy, applicants would undergo screening procedures and obtain immigrant visas through the U.S. Department of State abroad before reentering America as permanent residents. USCIS stated that only individuals facing “extraordinary circumstances” may be allowed to complete the adjustment process while remaining in the United States.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said the administration is restoring the original interpretation of immigration law.
“Under President Trump, USCIS is returning to the original intent of the law and reinforcing the proper distinction between temporary admission and permanent residence. Aliens who come to the United States temporarily and later seek permanent residency should pursue an immigrant visa through the proper channels in their home countries before being admitted as immigrants.”
The guidance affects adjustment of status applications under Section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which currently allows some migrants already in the U.S. to apply for Green Cards without leaving the country.
USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler also defended the move, saying, “We’re returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation’s immigration system properly. From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances.”
He added that the policy would reduce cases of migrants remaining in the country illegally after residency applications are denied.
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