US Immigration authority issues clarification for H-1B visa holders and high-skilled workers on changes in Green Card policy; says: People who present applications tha…

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a clarification on its new Green Card policy, which could require many applicants to apply for permanent residency from outside the United States. The policy, announced last week, raised concerns among H-1B visa holders and the technology industry about potential delays or disruptions in their immigration process. According to the USCIS spokesperson, many H-1B visa holders and applicants considered in the national interest may still be allowed to continue adjusting their status from inside the country. The agency stated that the policy is 'merely restating and reasserting' its interpretation of congressional intent regarding immigration status changes. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) noted that current H-1B visa holders could continue their existing process, with exceptions made for those providing economic benefits or serving national interests. The policy aims to enforce stricter immigration processes by requiring most applicants to apply for Green Cards outside the US. The USCIS stated that 'an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances.' This move sparked immediate backlash, with LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman criticizing the policy on social media, calling it 'harmful' for tech, business, and America broadly. Immigration lawyer Todd Pomerleau questioned the policy’s legality, stating that it 'overturns a statute' and would likely face legal challenges. Administration officials defended the changes, arguing that the policy ensures the immigration system functions as intended, without incentivizing loopholes. The clarification suggests that while the policy is strict, some applicants may still proceed within the US depending on individualized circumstances. The USCIS emphasized that operational details are still being finalized, but the intent remains to align with congressional immigration laws.