USCIS narrows who may and may not obtain a green card in the U.S.
On May 21, 2026, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199 stating that it will grant adjustment of status only as an “extraordinary” act of discretion in exceptional cases. Furthermore, that “Congress expects aliens paroled into the United States or admitted into the United States as nonimmigrants to depart rather than pursue adjustment of status. Such aliens are generally expected to pursue an immigrant visa and admission from outside the United States “
While the policy does not impact refugees’ and asylees’ eligibility to apply for adjustment, parolees – as nonimmigrants – are specifically targeted:
With limited exceptions, the statutory scheme suggests that Congress expects aliens paroled into the United States or admitted into the United States as nonimmigrants to depart rather than pursue adjustment of status. Such aliens are generally expected to pursue an immigrant visa and admission from outside the United States.
Additionally, applicants who are permitted to adjust while in the United States will have added difficulty obtaining approvals. The policy describes adjustment as being an “extraordinary act of administrative grace” and “extraordinary relief.” Officers are ordered to “consider all relevant factors and information in the totality of the circumstances in exercising that discretion.” The language of the policy makes application approval the undesired exception and expects that denials will be the norm.
Several details are unclear, including how the policy will be implemented, and whether the policy be retroactive and impact pending applications for adjustment. Details will be released as soon as they are obtained.
English-only analysis — translations soon!
Read full article at nytimes.com
