Trump’s Green Card ban: How applicants can respond plan ahead

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has halted the processing of green cards for some refugees and asylees over concerns for "additional screening and vetting." The action has sent thousands into legal limbo as they wait for a determination on their status in the US.

Why did DHS stop processing Green Card applications?

The green card application halt is also part of a larger US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) initiative to screen and detect fraud more effectively. The DHS asserts that this measure is consistent with two executive orders signed by former President Donald Trump, which require increased scrutiny for candidates, especially those from high-risk areas. Even though refugees are thoroughly vetted abroad and asylees have strict legal processes, DHS believes that additional probing is needed in order to guard against fraud as well as to protect national security.

Why was this choice made?

The move is in sync with two of Trump's executive orders: one on increasing screening for refugees and asylum seekers, and the other allowing federal officials to designate certain foreign gangs as terrorist groups, making the process of immigration more complicated. DHS claims these measures are being taken to "avoid threats to public safety and national security" by enhancing vetting.