Immigration court alert: Reports show some hearings are being moved on days’ notice, and some people are never told. Missing a hearing, even by mistake, can lead to a deportation order. Check your hearing date and location now, and do not face court without a lawyer.
USCIS announced on May 22, in a policy memorandum dated May 21 (PM-602-0199), that it will grant adjustment of status, which is applying for a green card from inside the United States, only in “extraordinary circumstances.” The agency’s announcement describes the policy as aimed at people in temporary status, such as students, temporary workers and visitors, who must generally seek permanent residence through consular processing in their home countries. The memorandum describes adjustment as discretionary relief, and its text says applicants must show “unusual or even outstanding equities.” USCIS says officers will evaluate cases individually and that it is directing resources to priorities such as visas for victims of violent crime and human trafficking, and naturalization applications.
What this may mean: If you are in temporary status and plan to apply for a green card from inside the United States, get advice before you file. This policy may affect whether adjustment is realistic or whether consular processing is the better path.
Sources: USCIS announcement · Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199
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