US Government Pauses Certain Green Card Applications
The green card application process can be long and daunting, and this is something that numerous immigrants in Palm Beach County have experienced firsthand. The current administration may be making this process even more time-consuming, and a recent announcement suggests that some green card applications could be “paused.” What exactly does this mean, and how can you pursue positive outcomes during a period of uncertain immigration policy?
Why Is USCIS Pausing Green Card Processing?
In March of 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated that it had paused the processing of some green card applications. These applications involve immigrants seeking permanent residence, and USCIS states that this pause is necessary in order to conduct more extensive vetting. Authorities also say that they have no other choice but to take this step, as they are trying to comply with an executive order recently signed by the new president.
This executive order is titled “Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats,” and it was signed in January of 2025. Under this executive order, all agencies must thoroughly vet and screen “to the maximum degree” anyone trying to pursue permanent residence.
In particular, the executive order mandates vetting for any individuals coming from “regions or nations” with security risks. As a result, individuals from certain countries may be more likely to experience paused applications than others. If you are pursuing permanent residence after being admitted to the United States as a refugee or asylum seeker, you may also be more likely to experience a paused application.
Many critics have pointed out that all green card applications are already subject to a significant vetting process. They say that this new level of vetting is excessive and unnecessary. However, one has to note the specific wording of the executive order. It legally requires all agencies – including USCIS – to vet applicants “to the maximum degree.” Although vetting might have occurred in the past, agencies were probably capable of doing more.
Major Immigration Policy Shifts Continue in the United States
Although these changes may be unpopular in many communities, immigration remains a key issue among many Americans. Those who voted for the current administration want these changes to occur, and a more conservative immigration policy continues to generate support among the majority of the American population. As a result, immigrants should not expect these policies to soften anytime soon. After all, we are only a few months into this president’s term.
Can an Immigration Lawyer in Palm Beach County Help Me?
An immigration lawyer in Palm Beach County may be able to help you pursue positive outcomes – even during periods of uncertain policy decisions. If your green card application has been paused, consider speaking with The Devore Law Group today. With our help, you may be able to utilize various strategies to speed up this process and secure your green card. Reach out now.
Sources:
nbcnews.com/news/latino/trump-administration-stops-processing-green-cards-vetting-rcna198061
reuters.com/world/us/trumps-immigration-policies-find-support-he-expands-crackdown-2025-03-26/
