US to Re-Examine Green Cards from 19 Countries Over Security Fears
US immigration officials outline a nationwide review of permanent resident cards for people from 19 nations, citing tightened security and visa-overstay concerns.
The United States is launching a broad review of permanent resident cards, commonly called green cards, issued to people from several nations. The aim is stronger security screening for current and future residents as part of a broader immigration safety effort.
What’s happening
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says President Donald Trump has ordered a comprehensive re-examination of all green cards held by individuals from countries of concern. A June White House proclamation named Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Somalia, and Venezuela among others as targets for enhanced checks, with Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, and Libya also listed.
Why this is being done
The move follows a Washington, D.C. incident in which an Afghan national allegedly shot two National Guard members, hospitalizing them. While the administration frames such events as evidence of security risks, USCIS officials have not tied the attack directly to the green-card review.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow stated on social media that the plan involves reviewing every green card linked to countries of concern, but he did not provide details on how the process will work. He emphasized that protecting Americans remains the top priority and criticized prior resettlement policies as reckless, without attributing the attack to them.
How the review is framed
The June proclamation argues that tighter screening is needed to prevent foreign nationals who pose safety or public-security risks from entering the United States and to address high visa overstay rates among business, student, and tourist visa holders. It notes Afghanistan’s current circumstances, including Taliban control, limited civil documentation, and gaps in screening and vetting capabilities.
In addition to Afghanistan, other listed countries include Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, and Libya. The administration indicates these nations will face heightened checks for green-card holders and related visa pathways.
Related actions
Last week, USCIS announced a separate review of all refugees admitted under the Biden administration. On Wednesday, authorities paused processing of Afghan immigration requests as security and vetting procedures are updated.
Expert commentary
Expert comment: An immigration policy analyst says the expanded vetting reflects a broader shift toward tighter safeguards in residency decisions. While aimed at security, the review could create uncertainty for families relying on green cards.
Short summary
In short, the Trump administration is broadening its scrutiny of permanent resident cards for people linked to a group of countries, citing national-security concerns and visa overstay issues. The move follows related actions on refugees and Afghan visa processing, potentially affecting thousands of permanent residents and shaping future immigration policy.
Key takeaway: The administration is widening security checks on green cards from several nations to bolster national safety amid ongoing threats. BBC News