During Donald Trump's presidency, significant changes were made to US immigration policy, particularly concerning green cards (lawful permanent residency). The focus shifted towards stricter enforcement and prioritizing specific skill sets and family relationships. While the existing green card categories remained (family-based, employment-based, etc.), the application and approval processes became more stringent.
One notable aspect was the increased scrutiny of applications, often leading to longer processing times and higher denial rates. The 'public charge' rule, which aimed to deny green cards to individuals deemed likely to become reliant on government benefits, faced legal challenges but signaled a clear shift in immigration philosophy.
While some argued these policies strengthened national security and protected American jobs, critics contended they hindered economic growth and separated families. Understanding these changes requires examining specific executive orders and policy memos issued during Trump's administration. The long-term impact of these policies continues to be debated and analyzed within the context of US immigration law.
