USCIS has issued a new policy memo stating that individuals seeking to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident must generally do so through consular processing abroad, rather than from within the United States. This significant policy change affects nonimmigrants on temporary visas, including students, tourists, and temporary workers, who will now be expected to return to their home countries to apply for a Green Card.
Key Details:
- Nonimmigrants must apply for a Green Card through consular processing abroad.
- Adjustment of status from within the U.S. will be considered an “extraordinary form of relief” and granted on a case-by-case basis.
- USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler emphasized this change as a return to the “original intent of the law.”
- The shift aims to free up resources for naturalization applications and other immigration priorities.
This operational shift will likely lead to longer timelines and increased travel logistics for employers and foreign talent navigating the U.S. immigration system. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: Sharadha Sankararaman Kodem