Proposed U.S. Green Card Policy Could Impact Thousands, including Bahamians

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UNITED STATES – The Trump administration is proposing a major change to the U.S. Green Card process, one that could force many immigrants already living legally in the United States to leave the country before applying for permanent residency.

For decades, many foreigners with legal status, including spouses of U.S. citizens, international students, temporary workers, refugees and asylum seekers, have been able to apply for green cards without leaving the United States.

However, under new guidance announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (UCIS), most temporary visa holders would now have to return to their home country to complete the process, unless immigration officers determine there are “extraordinary circumstances.”

According to the Associated Press, UCIS says temporary visas were never intended to become a pathway to permanent residency, but critics however, argue the move could separate families, create long delays, and discourage legal immigration altogether.

Former USCIS adviser Doug Rand told the Associated Press the policy appears aimed at reducing the number of people who eventually become U.S. citizens through permanent residency.

Immigration lawyers also warn that the policy could create major complications for applicants from countries where U.S. embassies are closed or where visa processing is severely delayed.

Now, what could this mean for Bahamians currently living in the United States on temporary visas? They may face additional uncertainty if they hope to transition to permanent residency.

Instead of adjusting their status from inside the U.S., many could be required to return home and apply through U.S. Embassy Nassau.

Now, the policy has not yet taken effect, and immigration attorneys say many details remain unclear.

Our News reached out to U.S. embassy officials here in New Providence for more details, but were told they will get back to us with a response as soon as they can.