New green card rules

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new rules and changes to the green card process, which may affect individuals seeking to obtain a green card. Here are some of the key changes:

  1. Public Charge Rule: The Trump administration introduced a new public charge rule in 2019, which expanded the definition of "public charge" to include individuals who have received certain public benefits, such as Medicaid, food stamps, and housing assistance. The rule aims to deter immigrants from relying on government assistance. However, the rule has been challenged in court and is currently being reviewed.
  2. Green Card Backlog Reduction: In 2020, USCIS introduced a new rule aimed at reducing the green card backlog by increasing the number of visas available for certain categories, such as family-based and employment-based visas. The rule also introduced a new "premium processing" option for certain applications, which allows for faster processing for an additional fee.
  3. Public Charge Inadmissibility: The new rule also introduced a public charge inadmissibility provision, which makes it more difficult for individuals who are likely to become a public charge to enter the United States. This provision applies to individuals who have received certain public benefits, such as Medicaid, food stamps, and housing assistance, within the past 12 months.
  4. Green Card Eligibility: The new rule also introduced changes to the green card eligibility criteria, including:
    • Age: The age limit for green card eligibility has been increased from 21 to 26 for certain categories, such as the EB-2 and EB-3 visas.
    • Education: The rule requires that certain applicants have a bachelor's degree or higher to qualify for certain green card categories.
    • Work Experience: The rule requires that certain applicants have at least two years of work experience in their field to qualify for certain green card categories.
  5. Green Card Application Process: The new rule also introduced changes to the green card application process, including:
    • Form I-485: The rule introduced a new Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, which must be filed by applicants seeking to adjust their status to a green card holder.
    • Biometric Data: The rule requires that applicants provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, as part of the green card application process.
  6. Premium Processing: The new rule introduced a premium processing option for certain green card applications, which allows for faster processing for an additional fee.
  7. Green Card Interviews: The new rule requires that certain green card applicants undergo an interview as part of the application process.

It's important to note that these changes are subject to change and may be affected by future court decisions or changes in government policies. If you are seeking to obtain a green card, it's recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney to ensure that you are aware of the latest rules and requirements.