Green Cards: USCIS Says H-1B Visa Workers May Not Have to Leave US to Apply
Summary
U.S. immigration officials clarified a recent policy that may allow some H-1B visa holders to apply for green cards without leaving the United States. The new rules generally require temporary visa holders to complete their green card applications abroad, except for those whose roles provide clear economic benefits or national interest.Key Facts
- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) clarified a policy from last week related to green card applications for H-1B visa workers.
- Most temporary visa holders now must leave the U.S. to apply for permanent residency unless they meet narrow exceptions.
- Exceptions are mainly for those whose work benefits the U.S. economy or serves the national interest.
- This changes a long-standing practice where many applicants could adjust their status while staying in the U.S.
- The policy shift could cause travel risks and delays, especially for people from countries with visa backlogs or travel restrictions.
- The change may lead to longer family separations and disruptions for U.S. employers relying on highly skilled workers.
- USCIS has not provided a clear timeline or detailed rules about who qualifies for the exceptions.
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