Under the Trump administration, Green Card seekers are now facing new scrutiny regarding their views on Israel. The administration is also granting permanent legal residency to far fewer applicants. According to a Times analysis of agency data, Green Card approvals have fallen by more than half in recent months.
This shift represents a significant change in U.S. immigration policy, tying national security and foreign policy considerations to the immigration process. Applicants are now being asked about their stance on Israel, with those perceived as critical potentially facing denial.
The policy has raised concerns among immigration advocates and civil liberties groups, who argue that it may infringe on free speech and target individuals based on political beliefs. The administration, however, maintains that the measures are necessary to ensure national security.
Data shows that the number of approved Green Cards has dropped sharply since the new guidelines were implemented. The decline is particularly noticeable among applicants from certain regions, though the administration has not released detailed breakdowns.
Critics warn that the policy could deter talented individuals from seeking to live and work in the United States, potentially harming the economy and innovation. Supporters argue that it aligns with the administration's broader immigration enforcement priorities.
