US businesses warn Trump administration over green card rule change: Report
US business leaders privately cautioned Trump administration officials that a proposed change to green card application procedures could disrupt workforces and create uncertainty for employers, according to a report by the Washington Post.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently said that applicants for permanent residency should generally apply from their home countries, except in “extraordinary circumstances.”
However, the guidance did not clearly define who would be affected, leaving many applicants in limbo.
Industry pushback and high-level discussions
Following the announcement, discussions reportedly took place between major companies, industry groups, and officials from the White House, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Labour, and the State Department.
Technology companies and the US Chamber of Commerce are said to have raised concerns, warning that the policy could complicate hiring and retention of skilled foreign workers.
Broader immigration policy tensions
The reported move highlights ongoing tensions between business groups reliant on immigrant labour and immigration hardliners within the Trump political sphere.
In the past, the administration has adjusted immigration-related measures after pushback from employers, including pauses on certain enforcement actions and clarifications on visa fee rules.
Assurances from officials
Last week, officials reportedly sought to reassure industry leaders that most work visa categories would not be affected.
USCIS has also indicated that many applicants for permanent residency are unlikely to be required to leave the US during processing, although no formal clarification has been issued.
Policy status still unclear
Immigration lawyers quoted in the report said the guidance appears to be on hold pending further details on implementation.
A White House official told the Washington Post that the memo reflects existing law and is expected to have limited impact on skilled workers following proper procedures.
Officials also said immigration officers would retain discretion on a case-by-case basis.
The USCIS has stated that the approach is intended to streamline processing and ensure enforcement resources are focused on higher-priority immigration matters, including humanitarian cases and naturalisation applications.
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