If you’re an immigrant in the U.S. applying for a green card — especially through family or marriage — recent changes in immigration policy might directly affect you. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a new policy that could place certain green card applicants into removal proceedings, also known as deportation, even before their case is decided.
This change has raised serious concerns within immigrant communities, particularly among Indian nationals and others waiting for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.
🚨 What Is the New USCIS Green Card Policy?
As of August 1, 2025, USCIS now has broader authority to initiate deportation proceedings against applicants for green cards who are found to be removable, even due to simple issues like missing documents or minor application errors.
Under the updated policy:
- Applicants can be denied without warning (no more “Request for Evidence” in some cases).
- No chance to correct mistakes may be offered before initiating deportation.
- USCIS can issue a Notice to Appear (NTA), placing the applicant in immigration court.
- This applies to pending and new green card applications.
The updated USCIS policy manual explicitly states:
“A family-based petition accords no immigration status nor does it bar removal.”
Who Is at Risk?
This policy primarily affects family-based green card applicants, such as:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Parents or children of U.S. citizens
- Individuals without valid legal immigration status during the green card process
Applicants who are already in the U.S. on an expired visa or who are undocumented face the highest risk of deportation, even if they are married to a U.S. citizen or eligible for adjustment of status.
Why Is This Happening?
The updated policy is part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy. The USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are placing greater scrutiny on immigration fraud, overstays, and technical non-compliance.
Key changes include:
- Stricter documentation requirements to prove bona fide (real) relationships (e.g., joint bank accounts, photos, affidavits)
- Tighter rules around interviews and background checks
- Increased review of prior visa or immigration applications
Applicants can no longer assume that minor mistakes will simply be corrected with a follow-up request. A denial could mean being referred directly to immigration court.
📊 How Many People Are Affected?
Each year, over 650,000 to 800,000 immigrants apply for green cards through family-based sponsorship in the U.S.
According to 2024 data:
- India ranks among the top countries for family-sponsored green card applications.
- 29,725 Indian applicants received family-based green cards in FY 2024.
- Many more are still waiting due to the per-country cap on green cards.
For Indians especially, this new policy could worsen already long wait times and make the green card process far more risky.
🔎 What Should Green Card Applicants Do Now?
If you’re applying (or plan to apply) for a green card through marriage or family, here’s what you should do to stay safe and protect your case:
✅ Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission
✅ Submit strong evidence of your relationship, especially for marriage-based applications
✅ Consult an immigration attorney if you are out of status or have past visa issues
✅ Keep copies of everything you submit to USCIS
✅ Prepare for interviews thoroughly and bring all supporting documents
Do not delay or ignore any notices from USCIS or immigration court.
💡 Final Thoughts
The green card process in the U.S. has always been complex — but with this tougher USCIS policy in place, the stakes are now higher than ever. Family-based immigrants, especially from India, must be extra cautious and proactive when applying.
This is not the time for DIY immigration applications. A small error could result in deportation under the current rules. Work with a qualified immigration professional, stay informed about your rights, and act quickly if you receive any USCIS notice.
