Green Card Must Leave US 2026: DHS Clarifies Most Won't Face Consular Processing Rule Change

The Department of Homeland Security has issued an important clarification regarding green card processing requirements, stating that the majority of immigrants currently residing in the United States will not be forced to depart the country to complete their green card applications. This announcement comes amid widespread concern following reports that the Trump administration was considering sweeping changes to adjustment of status procedures. The clarification addresses fears that a large-scale shift toward mandatory consular processing would upend the plans of hundreds of thousands of pending applicants, including many EB-3 skilled and unskilled workers. Under current rules, eligible applicants who are already present in the U.S. can file for adjustment of status (Form I-485) without leaving the country, and DHS confirmed this pathway will remain available for most applicants. For EB-3 applicants specifically, this is significant news. Workers from high-backlog countries such as Vietnam, India, and the Philippines who are maintaining valid status have particular reason to avoid consular processing, as leaving the U.S. can trigger bars to reentry or complicate pending petitions. The DHS statement suggests these applicants can largely continue pursuing adjustment of status domestically. However, the administration has signaled increased scrutiny of visa overstays and prior immigration violations, meaning applicants with complex immigration histories — including certain F-1 visa holders or those with prior unlawful presence — may still face heightened review or be directed to consular processing on a case-by-case basis. EB-3 applicants are advised to consult with an immigration attorney to assess their individual eligibility for adjustment of status, particularly if they have any gaps in lawful status, prior visa violations, or travel history that could complicate their case under evolving USCIS New Rules for June 2026.