Washington: The US has announced exceptions to a recently tightened green card process that required people on temporary visas to leave the country and apply only through a US embassy in their home nation.
A green card is the US permanent residency document, allowing holders to live and work indefinitely in any state. It can be obtained through employment, family ties or investment.
Earlier, workers on visas such as H-1B and L-1 could apply for permanent residency while staying in the US, helping them avoid disruption to their jobs. Under a new rule introduced by President Donald Trump, applicants were required to exit the US and file their case from abroad.
The change drew criticism, especially from Indian professionals on work visas who face long waiting periods for green cards and feared job loss if forced to return to India. Following the backlash, US Customs and immigration authorities said certain applicants can again apply from within the US under categories linked to economic benefit and national interest.
The relaxation is expected to help Indians working in fields such as technology, research and healthcare, bringing significant relief to many affected families and employees.
