05/23/2026
On May 21, 2026, USCIS issued a policy memo (PM-602-0199) saying that adjustment of status (the green card process done inside the U.S. on Form I-485) is "extraordinary" relief and a matter of "administrative grace" — not something anyone is entitled to, even if they meet every eligibility requirement. The official position is that the normal way to get a green card is consular processing from abroad, and adjusting status inside the U.S. is the exception. Despite how the headline sounds, the memo does not create a new legal test or require applicants to prove "extraordinary circumstances." The actual legal standard for granting adjustment hasn't changed. What has changed is how officers are told to weigh negative factors — especially overstays, status violations, and failure to leave the U.S. when the person was supposed to. Those are now flagged as serious negatives that the applicant has to overcome with strong positive equities like family ties, long residence, employment history, and good moral character.
