05/23/2026
🔥BREAKING NEWS🔥
👉 The May 21, 2026, USCIS policy memo instructs that green card applicants (Adjustment of Status) must generally apply through consular processing in their home countries rather than from within the U.S. The policy dictates that applying inside the U.S. will now be treated as an "extraordinary form of relief".
👉What the Policy Means for You❓
❎ Consular Processing: Most foreign nationals seeking permanent residence must leave the U.S. and navigate the visa process via the Department of State.
❎ Discretionary Relief: USCIS officers are directed to view Adjustment of Status as a discretionary "administrative grace" rather than an automatic right. Officers will assess individual factors such as family ties, moral character, and immigration history on a case-by-case basis.
❎ Impact on Temporary Visa Holders: Individuals currently on standard temporary visas without "dual intent" (e.g., tourist visas, TN, or E-2) face greater challenges in adjusting their status while in the country.
❎ Exceptions for Dual-Intent Visas: The policy holds the least impact for individuals in "dual-intent" nonimmigrant categories, such as H-1B and L-1, for whom applying for permanent residency is consistent with maintaining their temporary status.
👉Current Status and Next Steps
❎ Status of Pending Cases: As USCIS rolls out the practical application of this memo, they have not yet clarified exactly how pending Adjustment of Status applications currently in progress will be handled.
❎ Legal and Advocacy Backlash: The change represents a major shift from decades of prior practice. Civil rights and immigration advocacy groups strongly oppose the measure, so it is highly likely to be challenged in the court system.
❎ Guidance: Because the memo significantly changes I-485 procedure, it is highly recommended that you consult a qualified immigration attorney to assess how these rules apply to your specific visa category.
(Credit to: Google Search overviews)
For the full official details and directives to officers, you can read the USCIS Policy Release.
https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary
(Credit to: uscis.gov )
(Posted: 05/23/26)
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