Anna Hartz
For many people, getting a green card is the final step after years of studying, working, or building a life in America.
Immigration policy has always been one of the most debated issues in the United States. Now, a new decision from the Trump administration could change that process for hundreds of thousands of immigrants already living in the country.
Applying for green card
The Trump administration announced a major change to the green card system this week. Under the new policy, many people who are temporarily living in the United States will now have to return to their home countries to complete their green card applications, according to Ziare.
Officials say the move is designed to reduce illegal immigration and make the system more efficient. Critics argue that the decision will create serious problems for families and people who are already legally living in the country.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services spokesman Zach Kahler explained the new rule in a public statement. He said that people who are in the United States on temporary visas should not treat their stay as the first step toward permanent residency.
The policy affects many groups, including students, temporary workers, and tourists. In most cases, these individuals will now need to leave the US and continue the process through American consulates in their home countries.
Kahler said this would reduce the number of people who remain in the country illegally after their applications are denied. He also claimed the change would allow immigration officers to focus on other important cases, including citizenship applications and visas for crime victims.
Cruelly designed
Former USCIS official Doug Rand criticized the policy strongly. He said around one million people apply for green cards every year and that about half normally apply while already living in the United States.
Rand warned that forcing applicants to leave the country could create major risks. Some people may not be allowed back into the US quickly, especially citizens from countries facing travel restrictions or tighter immigration controls.
Humanitarian organizations also reacted with concern. Christian aid group World Relief called the policy cruel and harmful to families. The organization said the rule could separate husbands and wives or parents and children for long periods of time.
World Relief president Myal Greene said there was no clear reason for such a strict change. He expressed hope that Congress, the courts, or future officials might reverse the decision.
The new policy is expected to become one of the most controversial immigration measures introduced during Trump’s presidency.
