05/23/2026
📣 New Policy Update: USCIS has issued a new restrictive policy about approving green cards in the United States.
📣 Powell Law's short takeaway: It is too soon to tell how USCIS' new policy on green cards will affect pending and future cases. Don't withdraw your application or leave the country and don't panic. Most importantly, seek legal counsel.
USCIS released a new policy memo this week reminding officers that adjustment of status (applying for a green card from inside the U.S.) is a discretionary benefit—not an automatic right, even if you meet all the legal requirements. In practical terms, this means immigration officers may take a closer look at each case and weigh both positive and negative factors before making a decision and determine whether consular processing would be available to the applicant.
What does this mean for you?
The law itself has not changed and much of what the memo says is already true—eligibility rules are still the same and green cards have always been decided on discretion. But how cases are reviewed may become stricter and more discretionary. Strong documentation, preparation, and legal guidance are more important than ever.
A calm word from our office:
It’s too early to know exactly how this memo will be applied in everyday cases. We are watching closely. Importantly, policy memos like this often sound broader and more severe than how they are ultimately implemented.
For now, our guidance remains steady:
☮️Don’t panic.
⚖️Work with experienced counsel on your case.
💡Make informed decisions.
We will continue to monitor developments and share updates as we learn more. Contact us at 757-775-8526 or through our website.
Powell Law is a full-time immigration law firm specializing in complicated family-based cases, victim of crime visas, and relief-based applications. Serving clients around the world from Williamsburg, VA.
