Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a significant policy shift, President Donald Trump has mandated a thorough review of all green cards issued to nationals from countries labeled high-risk. This decision follows a troubling incident involving an Afghan individual who opened fire outside the White House, resulting in the tragic death of West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom.

Joseph Edlow, Director of US Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS), affirmed the directive, stating, “I have instructed a comprehensive, detailed reevaluation of every Green Card held by individuals from nations of concern.”

Countries Under Scrutiny

Earlier this year, the US designated 12 countries as presenting a “very high risk” to national security: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. A partial travel restriction also affects seven other nations: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Green card holders from these 19 countries will now be subject to added scrutiny.

Understanding Green Cards

A Green Card, known as a Permanent Resident Card, permits foreign nationals the legal right to reside and work indefinitely in the US. Individuals holding Green Cards, recognized as lawful permanent residents (LPRs), can petition for US citizenship after living continuously for 1–5 years and proving good moral character.

Minors under 18 automatically acquire citizenship if at least one parent is a US citizen. Green Cards are distributed through:

• Family-based sponsorship: US citizens or permanent residents sponsor relatives.

• Employment-related categories: Those with a job offer or business investment.

• Diversity Visa Lottery: Annual lottery for nationals from countries with limited US immigration.

• Asylum or Refugee Status: Possible after one year of residence in the US.

Application Steps and Costs

The application process typically begins with a petition filed by a family member or employer, or, in some cases, self-petition. Upon approval, applicants must either file with USCIS if they are in the US or through the Department of State while abroad.

Application Steps Include:

1. Biometrics appointment – fingerprints, photos, and signatures for background checks.

2. Interview – confirmation of eligibility by officials.

3. Approval – Green Card granted, generally valid for 10 years.

Cost Overview:

• Non-petition visa: $185 (~Rs 15,300)

• Petition-based categories: $205 (~Rs 17,000)

• Fiance(e)/Spouse category: $265 (~Rs 21,000)

• Employment-based: $345 (~Rs 29,000)

• Diversity Visa Lottery: $330 (~Rs 27,300)

• Family petitions (I-130/I-600/I-800): $325–$775 (~Rs 27,000–64,300)

This policy review signifies a notable tightening of immigration regulations under the Trump administration. While it primarily targets those from identified nations, it reflects a broader initiative to reassess security standards for green card holders. Immigrants impacted by this review may encounter delays or additional examinations, highlighting a shift toward increased caution in granting permanent residency.

#Global News #Donald Trump