In a decisive move reflecting increased scrutiny of immigration, President Donald Trump has ordered a thorough evaluation of all green cards granted to immigrants from nations identified as high-risk. This initiative follows a tragic incident near the White House involving an Afghan national who opened fire on two West Virginia National Guard members, resulting in the loss of one soldier, Sarah Beckstrom.
Joseph Edlow, Director of US Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS), confirmed this directive, saying, “I have ordered a complete and stringent reexamination of every Green Card issued to every individual from every country considered a concern.”
Countries Under Review
Earlier this year, the US government identified 12 nations as posing a “very high risk” to national security, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Furthermore, a partial travel ban affects an additional seven countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Green card holders from these 19 countries will now be subject to intensified scrutiny.
Understanding Green Cards and Eligibility
A Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, grants foreign nationals legal residence and the ability to work permanently in the US. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) can apply for US citizenship after living in the country for a period of 1–5 years and demonstrating good moral character.
Children under 18 automatically acquire citizenship if at least one parent is a US citizen. Green Cards can be obtained through:
Family sponsorship: US citizens or permanent residents can sponsor their relatives.
Employment-based categories: For individuals with job offers or business investments.
Diversity Visa Lottery: An annual lottery for nationals from countries with low immigration rates to the US.
Asylum or Refugee Status: Eligibility follows one year of residence in the US.
Application Process and Costs
Typically, applicants begin with a petition from a family member or employer, or sometimes self-petition. Once approved, they file either with USCIS if in the US or through the Department of State if abroad.
The steps include:
Biometrics appointment – involving background checks through fingerprints, photos, and signatures.
Interview – officials assess eligibility.
Approval – Green Card issued, generally valid for 10 years.
Fee Breakdown:
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 directive signifies a substantial tightening of US immigration regulations under Trump. While primarily targeting individuals from flagged nations, it also highlights a broader reevaluation of security measures for green card holders. Those impacted may experience extended processing times or additional verification, indicative of a more cautious stance regarding permanent residency.
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