New U.S. green card policy affects Canadians abroad
American immigration officials have announced a policy requiring most foreign visa holders to apply for permanent residency from their home countries, creating complications for Canadians in the U.S.
The United States has announced a new immigration policy that could complicate life for Canadians living south of the border and dreaming of permanent residency.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Friday that foreigners on temporary visas—including students, temporary workers, and visitors—must now apply for green cards through consular services in their home countries, with limited exceptions.
The policy reverses the longstanding practice allowing people to adjust status while remaining in the U.S. For Canadians on work visas or student visas, the shift means returning home to apply, a costly and time-consuming process that could derail career plans or educational pursuits.
According to Canadian immigration lawyers, the policy will create significant backlogs and complications. Processing times through overseas consulates are typically longer than domestic adjustments, and applicants risk visa denials or extended separations from jobs and families.
Calgary has a substantial expat community working in tech, energy, and professional services. Many Canadians in the U.S. have been building permanent residency cases while employed—the new rule disrupts that path. Those considering a U.S. move should consult immigration lawyers before committing to a position south of the border.