U.S. Launches Sweeping Green Card Review for 19 Nations

The Trump administration has ordered a full-scale review of Green Cards for citizens of 19 specific countries. This decisive action follows a shooting in Washington, D.C. that injured two National Guard members. The suspect is an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021.

According to Reuters, the order mandates an immediate and rigorous re-examination of existing immigration documents. The policy shift aims to address perceived security gaps linked to certain immigration pathways.

Policy Shift Follows National Guard Attack

The shooting occurred on November 27. The alleged shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, arrived through a U.S. resettlement program. He was granted asylum just last April.

U.S. officials state the suspect had previously passed all security checks. This fact has intensified scrutiny of the vetting process for immigrants and refugees. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now tasked with the large-scale review.

USCIS Director Joseph Edlow confirmed the directive. He stated the review will cover every Green Card holder from “every country of concern.” The move signals a significant tightening of U.S. immigration enforcement.

Broader Impact on Immigration and Security

This policy has immediate consequences for thousands of legal permanent residents. It reflects the administration’s hardened stance on immigration from specific regions. The long-term impact on international relations and U.S. immigration policy remains uncertain.

For affected Green Card holders, the review creates a climate of uncertainty. It could potentially lead to the revocation of status for some individuals. The administration asserts that American safety is the non-negotiable priority.

The new Green Card review policy represents one of the most significant immigration enforcement actions this year. It underscores a continued focus on stringent vetting procedures for the foreseeable future.

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Which countries are affected by the Green Card review?

The review targets Green Card holders from 19 nations. This list includes Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Venezuela, and several others. The countries were previously named in a presidential travel ban.

What triggered this new immigration policy?

The policy was triggered by a shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington D.C. The suspect is an Afghan national who entered the U.S. through a legal resettlement program in 2021.

Who is directing the Green Card re-examination?

Joseph Edlow, the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is leading the effort. He announced the directive following a request from President Donald Trump.

How will the Green Card review be conducted?

Officials have described the process as a “full-scale, rigorous reexamination.” Each Green Card for individuals from the listed countries will be scrutinized by immigration authorities.

Was the shooting suspect properly vetted?

Initial reports from CNN indicate the suspect was “clean on all checks” before his arrival. He had also worked with the U.S. government in Afghanistan prior to resettlement.

Trusted Sources

Reuters
Associated Press
CNN