Trump's Immigration Review Targets Green Cards from High-Risk Nations

In a decisive action reflecting a more stringent immigration policy, President Donald Trump has ordered a thorough examination of all green cards awarded to immigrants from nations identified as high-risk. This initiative follows a tragic event near the White House, where an Afghan national was involved in a shooting incident that claimed the life of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom.

US Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow confirmed the initiative, stating, “I have directed a complete re-evaluation of every Green Card for aliens from every country of concern.”

Identifying Affected Nations

This year, the US has singled out 12 nations recognized as posing a “very high risk” to national security: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, seven more countries, including Burundi and Cuba, face partial travel limitations. Green card holders from these 19 high-risk nations will endure increased levels of scrutiny.

Understanding the Green Card Process

A Green Card, known formally as a Permanent Resident Card, provides foreign nationals the legal right to live and work permanently in the US. Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) can eventually apply for US citizenship after residing continuously for 1-5 years and demonstrating moral integrity.

Children under 18 automatically gain citizenship if at least one parent is a US citizen. Green Cards are awarded through various routes:

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

• Employment categories: For individuals with job offers or business investments.

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

• Asylum or Refugee Status: Those eligible can apply after residing in the US for one year.

Application Process and Associated Fees

Typically, applicants initiate the process through a petition from a family member or employer, or they may self-petition. Approved applicants must then file with USCIS if in the US or with the Department of State from abroad.

The application steps are as follows:

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

2. Interview to confirm eligibility.

3. Approval leading to Green Card issuance, which is generally valid for a decade.

Applicants' Fee 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 review marks a notable tightening of immigration policies under the Trump administration, focusing specifically on individuals from flagged nations, while also highlighting an overall reassessment of security measures for green card holders. Immigrants subjected to this review may face notable delays or extra scrutiny, signaling a cautious shift in approving permanent residency.