By Ranti Thomas
United States President Donald Trump has directed Nigerians and other foreign nationals applying for green cards to return to their home countries to complete the process unless they qualify under “extraordinary circumstances.”
The new immigration directive was announced by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services as part of efforts to tighten immigration procedures and reduce adjustment of status applications within the US.
According to USCIS, the policy is aimed at restoring what it described as the “original intent” of American immigration law by ensuring applicants follow overseas visa processing channels instead of applying while staying temporarily in the country.
Under the directive, foreigners already living in the United States on temporary visas who want permanent residency may now be required to leave the country and complete their green card applications through US embassies or consulates in their home nations.
USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler said the policy would help reduce the number of migrants who remain in the United States illegally after unsuccessful residency applications.
The development has generated concern among immigrants and advocacy groups who fear the policy could affect thousands of families already living, studying, or working in the United States.
Immigration support organizations warned that forcing applicants to leave the US could expose some vulnerable individuals to danger, especially those fleeing abuse, conflict, or trafficking in their home countries.
The latest order is part of a wider immigration crackdown introduced since Trump returned to office, including stricter visa rules, expanded travel restrictions, and tighter border policies.
Nigeria has also been listed among countries facing partial immigration restrictions under expanded US travel measures announced by the Trump administration.
The White House cited visa overstays, security concerns, and screening challenges among reasons for imposing restrictions on affected countries, including Nigeria.
Immigration analysts say the new policy could create fresh uncertainty for many Nigerians already in the US on student, work, or temporary visas who hope to become permanent residents.
The policy is also expected to increase pressure on US embassies and consulates abroad as more applicants may now be required to process their green card applications outside the United States. (Reuters)
Despite criticism from advocacy groups, the Trump administration insists the measures are necessary to strengthen immigration control, improve compliance with visa rules, and protect national security.