The United States government has announced a major immigration policy shift that could significantly affect Ghanaians living in America on temporary visas and hoping to obtain permanent residency.
Under a new directive issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, most immigrants seeking green cards will now be required to leave the United States and complete their applications through US embassies or consulates abroad, mainly in their home countries.
The policy means many Ghanaians currently in the US on student visas, visitor visas, or temporary work permits may no longer be able to apply for permanent residency while remaining in the country, except under what authorities describe as “extraordinary circumstances.”
The move forms part of immigration reforms introduced under the administration of Donald Trump aimed at tightening immigration controls and reducing unlawful stays.
Previously, many immigrants were able to apply for permanent residency through the “adjustment of status” process, which allowed applicants to remain in the US while their green card applications were being processed.
However, under the new policy, many applicants may now have to return to their home countries, including Ghana, to continue the process through diplomatic missions such as the US Embassy in Accra.
According to USCIS, the changes are intended to reduce situations where individuals remain in the United States illegally after residency applications are denied.
USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler defended the policy, stating that temporary visits to the United States “should not function as the first step in the green card process.”
Immigration experts have warned that the new rules could create uncertainty for many immigrants and families already settled in the US. Some applicants who leave the country for consular processing may face delays, visa denials, or difficulties returning, especially if their temporary visas expire during the process.
The policy’s impact on immigrants with pending adjustment-of-status applications remains unclear. USCIS has indicated that applicants whose cases are considered economically beneficial or in the national interest may still be allowed to complete their applications from within the US.
Critics argue the policy could disrupt families, students, and employers who relied on the previous system.
The latest directive adds to a broader series of immigration restrictions introduced by the Trump administration, including tighter visa controls and enforcement measures affecting immigrants from several countries.
