The Trump administration has announced a controversial immigration policy that will require many legally residing immigrants in the United States to leave the country to apply for Green Cards from abroad. This significant change, outlined in a memo from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), states that adjustment of status is now considered a matter of discretion rather than a guaranteed right. USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler explained that this approach is intended to reduce visa overstays and prioritize applications for victims of violent crime and human trafficking. The policy has drawn sharp criticism from immigrant advocates, lawmakers, and local officials, who argue it disrupts over 70 years of immigration precedent, creating chaos for many families. Critics, including FWD.us President Todd Schulte, warn that this could lead to long-term separations for immigrants from over 100 countries affected by previous travel restrictions. The policy particularly impacts Indian technology professionals who depend on adjustment of status due to lengthy Green Card backlogs. Local leaders express concern that this will foster fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities, undermining the contributions of skilled workers to the economy.