The Trump administration has introduced several new immigration rules that will bring more checks for some green-card applicants.
The changes will also put time limits on foreign students and journalists in the US. Immigration officers will also have more power to reject some applications.
What is the new green-card application form?
The latest change was announced on Wednesday by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The agency said that it will replace the form used by eligible immigrants in the US to apply for permanent residency.
The new Form I-485 will become mandatory from September 18, 2026. The change will come when a new Department of Homeland Security rule on public-charge cases takes effect.
USCIS said that there will be no grace period for people who use the old form after the deadline.
What will the form look at?
They will look at the applicant’s full situation. They will also consider supporting documents and other relevant information. Some groups of immigrants will still be exempt from the public-charge rule.
The Department of Homeland Security said that the goal is to make sure immigrants can support themselves instead of depending mainly on government assistance.
When will Form I-485 replace the current form?
The new September 18, 2026 version of Form I-485 will replace the current January 20, 2025 version.
Applicants can use the old form only if they postmark or submit it online before September 18.
USCIS will reject the old form if it is submitted on or after that date. Applicants also cannot use the new form before September 18.
What are the new rules for foreign students and journalists?
The administration is also changing the rules for foreign students, exchange visitors and foreign media workers.
A separate DHS rule will take effect on September 15. It will end the current duration-of-status system for F, J and I visa holders.
Under the current system, many students and exchange visitors can stay in the US for the length of their approved programme.
The new system will instead give them a fixed period to stay. Those who need more time will have to apply for an extension.
Foreign journalists and other media representatives will also face fixed admission periods under the new rules. They may also have to meet additional requirements to remain in the country.
What do the changes mean for applicants?
Green-card applicants may face more checks about their financial situation. Foreign students and journalists will face closer monitoring as well.
For people from Pakistan, the changes could mean more strict paperwork and less room for mistakes when applying for US immigration benefits.