Trump administration begins making new requests of green-card applicants
Key Takeaways
- It has been reported that the federal government has begun issuing new, broader information requests to some green-card applicants.
- The changes appear to expand vetting beyond traditional documents and could affect both adjustment of status (Form I-485) and consular processing.
- Expect more Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or other notices, which can delay final decisions and raise compliance and privacy concerns.
- Impacted applicants should act quickly, preserve records, and consult an immigration attorney if possible.
What the report says
It has been reported that the federal government — through agencies that handle immigration vetting — has started making new types of information requests of people seeking lawful permanent residence (green cards). The Washington Post coverage indicates these requests go beyond routine paperwork and touch on broader areas of screening that have drawn scrutiny in past policy cycles, such as travel, finances, and online activity.
Legal context and who is affected
USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) handles most green-card applications filed inside the United States (adjustment of status, Form I-485); the State Department handles immigrant visas at overseas consulates. An RFE (Request for Evidence) asks applicants for additional documentation; a NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny) warns an applicant the agency may deny the case unless they rebut the concerns. It has been reported that both RFEs and other investigatory requests have broadened in scope — potentially affecting family-based, employment-based, and humanitarian applicants who are already in line for green cards.
Human impact and practical steps
More extensive evidence requests can cause significant delays and raise costs. For many applicants — families waiting years for visa availability, workers pursuing employer sponsorship, or refugees and asylees trying to adjust status — an extra RFE or new background queries can mean months more of uncertainty and possible legal bills. Applicants should preserve documentation (passport stamps, tax records, employment letters), be mindful of public social-media content, and respond to any USCIS or consular request within the deadline. Consulting an immigration lawyer can help tailor responses and, if necessary, prepare for appeals.
Source: Original Article