03 Jun USCIS Tightens Adjustment of Status Policy

Introduction

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a policy change affecting immigrants applying for Green Cards from within the United States. Under a new policy memo, USCIS states that Adjustment of Status will generally only be granted in “extraordinary circumstances,” with most applicants expected to complete immigrant visa processing abroad through a U.S. consulate.

This update may affect individuals currently in the U.S. on temporary visas, including students, tourists, and workers who planned to apply for permanent residency without leaving the country.

What Happened
On May 22, 2026, USCIS issued a policy memorandum emphasizing that immigrants seeking permanent residency should generally apply through consular processing outside the United States.

According to USCIS, temporary visas are intended for short-term purposes and should not automatically lead to permanent residency from inside the U.S. The agency stated that Adjustment of Status should be treated as an exceptional form of relief rather than a routine process.

USCIS also explained that shifting more cases to consular processing may help reduce visa overstays and allow the agency to focus resources on other immigration matters, including naturalization and humanitarian-based applications.

Who May Be Affected
This policy may impact:

• Tourist visa holders
• International students
• Temporary workers
• Family-based immigration applicants
• Employment-based immigration applicants

Applicants already considering a Green Card process may now face additional uncertainty regarding eligibility and processing options.

Risks and Challenges
This policy change may create several concerns for immigrants and their families, including:

• Increased Adjustment of Status denials
• Longer processing times abroad
• Family separation
• Employment interruptions
• Travel-related complications
• Potential unlawful presence issues for certain applicants

Because every immigration case is different, traveling abroad or changing immigration strategy without legal guidance could have serious consequences.

What Means for You

Immigrants currently in the United States should carefully review their immigration options before filing for permanent residency or making international travel plans.

As USCIS policies continue to change, legal strategies that previously worked may no longer provide the same predictability. Speaking with an immigration attorney can help individuals better understand their available options and potential risks.

Khamoushian Law Group is here to provide guidance and support. Stay tuned and follow @laylaesq on Instagram. 

Link to Original Article: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary