In a major immigration policy shift, the United States Department of Homeland Security has paused Green Card processing for certain groups, heavily impacting refugees and asylum seekers. While the policy does not single out specific nationalities, it has significant effects on Indian nationals applying for permanent residency after gaining humanitarian protection.
This pause, framed as a national security review, introduces new hurdles for thousands who fled religious persecution, political violence, or caste-based discrimination. Here’s what you need to know.
US Pause
Let’s look at the key facts:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Change | Pause on Green Card processing for refugees and asylees |
| Effective Date | March 2025 |
| Who is Affected | Refugees, asylum seekers, especially from high-volume applicant countries |
| Significant Impact | Indian nationals seeking Green Cards |
| Reason | Security vetting, fraud prevention, and administrative restructuring |
| Application Affected | Form I-485 – Application to Adjust Status |
| Estimated Delay | 12 months or more |
| Official Resource | USCIS Green Card Updates |
While meant to tighten security, this move is delaying thousands of cases, adding anxiety for those already navigating a long and stressful immigration journey.
Reasons
The Department of Homeland Security describes the pause as an administrative review. Officials say the aim is to improve background checks, prevent fraud, and bring more consistency to humanitarian immigration cases.
This decision comes in response to growing political pressure to strengthen immigration enforcement and address concerns about inconsistent vetting processes for asylum seekers.
According to a DHS spokesperson, the pause is part of “system-wide quality control to ensure permanent residence is granted only after rigorous and fair screening.”
Indian Surge
One major reason Indian nationals are feeling this pause strongly is the sharp increase in asylum applications from India.
According to TRAC Immigration:
- Over 51,000 Indian asylum applications were filed in 2023
- That’s up 466% from just 9,000 in 2018
- India ranks among the top 10 countries for asylum seekers in the US
Many applicants cite religious, political, caste-based, or gender-based persecution. While many claims are legitimate, the large volume has slowed processing and triggered extra scrutiny.
Consequences
Here are some of the biggest challenges Green Card applicants are facing:
1. Longer Waits
Form I-485 cases are now expected to be delayed by 12 to 24 months or more.
2. Work Authorization Delays
Employment Authorization Documents are still being issued, but renewals are taking longer, causing some people to temporarily lose work eligibility.
3. Travel Restrictions
Advance Parole travel documents are harder to get. Traveling without them can be seen as abandoning your case.
4. Emotional Stress
The uncertainty weighs heavily on families hoping to finally achieve stability after years of hardship.
What To Do
If you are impacted, here’s what you can do right now:
- Update Your Documents: Make sure your EAD, travel permit, mailing address, and USCIS online profile are current.
- Track Your Case: Create a USCIS account to get automatic alerts.
- Seek Legal Advice: A qualified immigration attorney can help you explore other options like Temporary Protected Status, Deferred Action, or family-based Green Cards.
- Do Not Travel Without Permission: Leaving the US without Advance Parole could cause you to lose your asylum or refugee status.
- Stay Connected: Community groups, nonprofits, and online forums offer support and information.
Advocacy
Immigrant rights groups have strongly criticized the DHS decision. Organizations like SAALT, AILA, and RAICES have demanded better transparency, mental health resources, and clear processing timelines for those caught in limbo.
An attorney with AILA said, “Pausing these applications only worsens the suffering of those who have already endured trauma. The US must do better.”
Pros and Cons
Every major policy shift has two sides:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strengthens fraud prevention | Prolongs family separation |
| Improves national security reviews | Increases court backlogs |
| Helps modernize systems | Reduces trust in immigration fairness |
The pause is expected to last at least 3 to 6 months, but it will be reviewed every 60 days. No full reinstatement date has been announced yet.
Strategies
Helpful steps you can take:
- Save all emails, receipts, notices, and biometrics letters in a safe place.
- Keep key forms like Form I-765 (EAD renewal) and Form I-131 (Advance Parole) updated.
- Follow advocacy groups for news and resources.
- Consider joining online communities like “Indian Asylum Seekers USA” on Facebook or WhatsApp for updates.
While this situation is frustrating, preparation and support can help you weather this storm and stay on the path to achieving your American Dream.
FAQs
Why has the US paused Green Card processing?
To enhance vetting, prevent fraud, and modernize immigration systems.
Who is most affected by the pause?
Refugees and asylum seekers, especially Indian nationals.
How long will the Green Card delay last?
At least 12 months, with reviews every 60 days.
Can I travel abroad during the pause?
Not without Advance Parole, or you risk losing your case.
What should I do if my case is delayed?
Stay updated, renew documents, and seek legal advice quickly.
