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U.S. Tightens Green Card Rules Amid Free Speech and Security Debate

Social media posts and protest attendance could now affect your green card approval. Will these changes protect national security—or silence dissent?

The image shows a green card with the words "Always Bring This Card" written on it against a black...
The image shows a green card with the words "Always Bring This Card" written on it against a black background.

U.S. Tightens Green Card Rules Amid Free Speech and Security Debate

The U.S. has revised its approach to issuing green cards. According to The New York Times, citing internal Department of Homeland Security documents, new guidelines allow for the denial of green card applications based on factors tied to an applicant's public stance, reports Liter.kz.

In particular, the changes concern social media posts and participation in rallies, which may be interpreted as grounds for additional scrutiny.

The updated instructions have been sent to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) staff, the agency responsible for processing green card applications.

Administration officials argue that these measures are aimed at safeguarding national interests and values. USCIS emphasizes that a broad range of factors is considered when reviewing applications, the source notes.

Critics warn that this approach could undermine freedom of expression and lead to heightened surveillance of applicants' political views.

They argue that the policy is contentious and raises legal concerns.

Official rules and their implementation may be further clarified. Decisions on individual applications are made on a case-by-case basis.

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