You might have seen scary headlines or heard rumors that everyone applying for a green card must leave the United States immediately. Many people are sharing bits of information that aren’t quite right, and this misinformation can cause unnecessary panic.
The News: A Change in How the Government Sees Green Cards
On May 22, 2026, the government released a memo about “Adjustment of Status.” This is the process people use to get a green card without leaving the U.S. A spokesperson for the government said that foreigners here on temporary visas should go back to their home countries to apply for a permanent residence card. They said that staying in the U.S. to apply should only happen in “extraordinary circumstances.”
This sounds like a big change. The government is telling its officers to be much stricter. They want more people to use embassies in their home countries instead of finishing the process here. However, the memo does not give a specific date for when this starts, and it does not say if it affects people who have already sent in their applications.
What the Memo Actually Says: The Legal Reality
Even though the news sounds scary, the law has not changed. For over 50 years, the rule has been that if you have a clean record, you should usually be allowed to get your green card here. The memo tries to make it sound like you need a special reason to stay, but it cannot change the laws.
Specifically, the Section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act still protects “immediate relatives.” This includes spouses, parents, and children of U.S. citizens. Under the law, these people can usually apply for a green card in the U.S. even if they stayed past their visa. A memo is just a set of instructions for workers; it is not a law. This means the path to a green card is still open, but it may require a better preparation than before.
Why You Should Talk to an Immigration Lawyer
Because the government is changing its instructions, you should not handle your case alone. A lawyer knows the difference between a “policy memo” and a “federal law” and how it will affect your green card application. They can help you show the government why you should be allowed to stay and finish your application here. Having a professional check your paperwork can prevent mistakes that might lead to a denial.
What You Should Do Now
The best thing you can do is stay calm. Do not leave the country or quit your application because of a headline. Instead, gather your birth certificates, marriage license and visa papers. Your next step should be to call a licensed immigration attorney. They can look at your specific situation and give you advice on how to move forward safely.