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Immigration & Visas

Green Card Applicants Must Now Apply From Abroad

The US has reversed a Biden-era policy allowing some applicants to adjust status while in the country—most must now file from outside the US.

Image: Seasoned Expat

The Department of Homeland Security has rescinded the Biden administration's rule that permitted certain green card applicants to adjust their status while physically present in the United States. Under the new policy, most applicants must now file their green card applications from outside the country and attend consular processing interviews abroad.

This change affects family-sponsored and employment-based green card applicants who previously could have adjusted status through USCIS offices in the US. The shift means longer timelines, additional travel costs, and more complex logistics for people seeking permanent residency. If you're planning to apply for a green card, expect to file your application at a US consulate or embassy in your home country or a third country, then wait for an interview appointment before returning to the US.

Most green card applicants must now file from outside the US and attend interviews at a consulate or embassy.

The policy takes effect immediately for new applications. If you're already in the green card pipeline, check your case status with USCIS to understand how this change affects your specific situation—some applicants may have different rules depending on when they filed.

Source: original report ↗

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