US Begins Major Green Card Review for 19 Countries Following Security Concerns

The United States has launched an extensive review of permanent residency for individuals from 19 nations after authorities raised concerns about potential security risks. The move follows heightened scrutiny of immigration procedures for countries considered to be of strategic concern.

Joseph Edlow, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), confirmed the initiative applies to all Green Card holders from the identified countries. He emphasized the process is preventative, designed to strengthen security while ensuring compliance with legal standards.

The 19 nations under review include Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, among others. Some countries were already under partial travel restrictions, while others face expanded oversight on permanent residency approvals.

Officials clarified that the review is administrative and does not imply wrongdoing by the residents themselves. The focus is on verifying documentation and eligibility, aiming to prevent potential threats before they reach American soil.

Advocacy groups have expressed concern about the impact on immigrant families, warning that extensive reviews could create anxiety and disrupt established lives. They stress that residents have complied with all legal processes and should not face undue hardship.

The White House indicated the review will follow strict legal frameworks, ensuring due process while addressing national security priorities. USCIS officials noted that similar reviews could be applied to other regions if threats are identified in the future.

Security analysts describe the initiative as part of a broader effort to tighten oversight on residency and immigration, balancing humanitarian considerations with preventive measures to protect the public.

This review reflects the U.S. government’s continued focus on aligning immigration processes with evolving security requirements, highlighting the complex intersection of policy, safety, and humanitarian obligations.