Major Green Card Rule Changes Shock Indians in US

The United States government has introduced major changes to green card rules, creating concern among foreign nationals, especially Indians living in the country on temporary visas. According to the latest policy memorandum issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, individuals on student, tourist, and work visas may no longer be able to complete their green card process while staying in the United States.

Until now, applicants could apply for permanent residency through the “Adjustment of Status” process without leaving the country. Under the new rules, however, this option will be treated as an exceptional relief rather than a general right. Applicants may now be required to return to their home country and complete the process through a U.S. consulate. Officials stated that the move is aimed at preventing visa overstays and misuse of immigration loopholes.

Immigration experts believe the changes could significantly impact H-1B visa holders, students, researchers, and skilled professionals, particularly Indians who already face long green card backlogs. Experts also warned that even highly skilled professionals and business founders may now have to leave the U.S. temporarily for immigration processing. Legal challenges against the new policy are also expected in the coming weeks.