US Halts Green Card Approvals for 19 High-Risk Nations in Major Policy Shift

The U.S. government has frozen key immigration benefits for people from 19 countries. This major policy shift was announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) this week. The move directly affects individuals from nations previously subject to a travel ban.

It places green card and naturalization applications on hold. The agency cites national security concerns as the primary reason. According to Reuters, the decision follows a recent violent incident in Washington, D.C.

Policy Details and Affected Countries Scrutinized

A new policy memo outlines the sweeping pause. It applies to immigrants already inside the United States. This includes those who arrived before the original travel restrictions.

The list includes Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, and Somalia. It also covers Myanmar, Chad, and Haiti. Venezuela and Cuba are among the nations facing restricted access.

USCIS will now re-review all approved benefit requests. This applies to individuals who entered during the current administration. Agency director Joseph Edlow will decide when the pause ends.

The review process is expected to take months. Officials will create a prioritized list for scrutiny. Some cases may be referred to law enforcement agencies.

Broader Immigration Crackdown Takes Shape

This action is part of a rapid series of immigration changes. The administration announced a pause on asylum decisions last week. Visas for certain Afghan allies have also been halted.

Critics argue the approach amounts to collective punishment. They say it unfairly targets broad groups of people. Supporters contend it is a necessary step for national safety.

The policy creates significant uncertainty for thousands of immigrants. Families awaiting permanent residency are now in limbo. Legal challenges to the directive are considered likely.

The long-term impact on U.S. immigration policy remains unclear. It signals a continued focus on stringent vetting procedures. International reactions to the move are still developing.

This halt on green card approvals marks one of the most significant immigration enforcement actions this year, intensifying scrutiny for nationals from specific high-risk countries.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Which countries are affected by this new policy?

Applications from 19 countries are paused. The list includes Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Yemen, Haiti, Venezuela, and Cuba. The full list matches nations under a previous travel ban.

Q2: Does this affect people who already have a green card?

The policy primarily targets pending applications. It focuses on individuals seeking new benefits or status adjustments. Those who are already lawful permanent residents are not directly impacted.

Q3: What types of applications are being put on hold?

The pause covers applications for lawful permanent residence, or green cards. It also includes petitions for naturalization to become a U.S. citizen. Other related immigration benefit requests are also subject to review.

Q4: What was the reason given for this decision?

USCIS cited national security concerns. The agency specifically referenced a recent shooting incident in Washington, D.C. The administration describes the listed countries as high-risk.

Q5: How long will this application pause last?

There is no fixed end date. The USCIS director has the authority to lift the pause. The agency has 90 days to create a review list for further action.