The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has launched a broad re-examination of Green Card holders from several “countries of concern,” following a directive from President Donald Trump.
In a statement posted on X, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said:
“At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern.”
According to Edlow, national security remains the agency’s top priority, and the new review aims to safeguard the country from what the administration describes as past “reckless resettlement policies.”
Which Countries Are Affected?
When asked to specify the list of “countries of concern,” USCIS referred to a June presidential proclamation naming 19 countries with deficiencies in screening and vetting procedures.
These include Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Venezuela, and others.
Why the Sudden Action?
The announcement follows a tragic shooting near the White House that left two National Guard members — Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24 — critically injured.
Federal prosecutors say the suspect, an Afghan national who previously assisted American forces, entered the U.S. under Operation Allies Welcome after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. Officials are now reviewing his vetting and immigration history, and sources confirm he was granted asylum earlier this year.
In response to the attack, President Trump labeled it an “act of terror” and stated that additional National Guard units would be deployed to Washington. Shortly afterward, the administration announced an indefinite halt on all immigration requests related to Afghan nationals.
What This Means for Green Card Holders
This sweeping review signals tighter scrutiny, especially for permanent residents from countries included in the proclamation.
While the re-examination does not mean immediate action against current Green Card holders, it highlights a growing trend:
Green Card status is not a permanent guarantee. Policies can — and do — change quickly.
If You’re Eligible, This Is the Moment to Secure Your Future
Becoming a U.S. citizen offers:
- Protection from sudden policy shifts
- The right to vote and fully participate in civic life
- Freedom from renewal deadlines and immigration reviews
- A lifetime legal status that cannot be revoked without serious cause
With heightened federal scrutiny and evolving immigration rules, now is one of the smartest times for eligible Green Card holders to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Take the next step — protect your status and your future.
Apply for Citizenship Today.
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