A sweeping review of Green Cards for individuals from 19 designated ‘countries of concern’ has been ordered by the Trump administration. This intensified immigration policy follows a violent incident near the White House involving an Afghan national and two National Guard service members. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow stated that the directive from President Trump mandates a “full-scale, rigorous reexamination” of all Green Cards associated with these countries. The administration aims to enhance public safety, contrasting its approach with prior “reckless resettlement policies.” This new guidance enables immigration officials to assess country-specific risks for applicants. The list of affected countries includes nations like Haiti, Syria, and Turkmenistan. The policy change, effective immediately, applies to all immigration cases pending or initiated after November 27th. Fortunately for Indian citizens, India is not on this list of countries subject to heightened scrutiny.
