The U.S. government has announced major changes to the green card application process, which will likely harm thousands of foreign nationals, including Kenyans. Under the new rule, immigrants already living in the U.S. who wish to apply for a green card must first leave the country and complete their applications from their home countries through consular processing, unless exceptional circumstances apply. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated that this policy, announced on May 22, aims to strengthen immigration enforcement and prevent individuals from overstaying after a denial. USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler explained that having applicants apply from their home countries reduces the need to track down and remove those who remain in the U.S. unlawfully. Previously, immigrants could apply without leaving the U.S., but now the process may take months or years. This change is part of the Trump administration’s broader crackdown on both illegal and legal immigration, which has already included restrictions on asylum, temporary protected status, refugee admissions, and student and work visas. The U.S. also recently announced a review of green cards issued to nationals from 19 countries of concern. Currently, over one million legal immigrants are waiting for approval on their adjustment of status applications.