US Eases New Rule Requiring Green Card Applicants (Img: Internet)
Washington DC: The United States immigration authorities have partially softened a recently announced green card policy after it triggered widespread concern among foreign workers, especially Indian professionals employed in the country on H-1B visas.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) had earlier introduced a major change requiring many temporary visa holders to leave the United States and complete their permanent residency applications through consular processing in their home countries.
PM Modi heads to Sweden; two-day visit to focus on AI, green transition
Under the revised framework announced earlier this week, applicants on work, student and tourist visas were expected to return to their countries and apply for green cards through US embassies or consulates abroad.
The policy marked a major shift from the previous Adjustment of Status system, which allowed many eligible applicants to remain in the United States while their permanent residency applications were processed.
The move immediately raised concerns among thousands of Indian professionals already dealing with lengthy green card backlogs under employment-based visa categories.
Following criticism and confusion surrounding the new rules, USCIS later introduced two major exemptions “economic benefit” and “national interest.”
USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler said applicants whose presence contributes economically or serves the national interest may still be allowed to continue their green card process from within the United States.
However, the agency has not yet clarified the exact criteria for determining eligibility under these exceptions.
Indian professionals working in the US on H-1B visas are among the most affected groups because of long waiting periods under EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green card categories.
How to apply for an e-passport in India: Eligibility, step-by-step process explained
Many applicants often wait between 10 and 15 years for permanent residency due to visa backlogs. Under the earlier version of the policy, many feared they could be required to leave the US during the process and return to India for consular interviews.
Immigration experts say the updated clarification provides some relief but still leaves considerable uncertainty for applicants deciding between Adjustment of Status and consular processing.
The policy changes are part of broader efforts by US authorities to tighten immigration procedures and reinforce restrictions linked to temporary visa categories.
