Trump administration appears to downplay impact of green card policy changes The Trump administration is attempting to reduce concerns over a recent immigration policy change that could have forced many green card applicants to leave the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement suggesting the new guidance merely restates existing law and policy, and will not prevent eligible individuals from obtaining a green card. While officials claim the impact on highly qualified applicants will be negligible, some experts believe the policy could still be burdensome and create confusion.

• The Trump administration is downplaying the impact of a recent immigration policy change affecting green card applicants.
• The change initially caused concern that hundreds of thousands would have to leave the U.S. to complete their applications.
• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated the guidance restates longstanding law and policy.
• DHS claims the policy will not prevent eligible individuals from obtaining a green card.
• Officials stated the policy will have no noticeable impact on highly qualified applicants and skilled professionals.
• An expert noted that while the rhetoric is toned down, the policy may still prove burdensome for applicants.