‘The rug pulled out from everyone’: the chaos of Trump’s new green card rules

New green card rules announced by the Trump administration have thrown the immigration system into chaos, leaving applicants and employers scrambling to understand the changes. The rules, which took effect immediately, impose stricter criteria for legal permanent residency, including income thresholds and public charge determinations.

Immigration attorneys report a surge in calls from clients whose applications are now in limbo. Many applicants who were close to receiving green cards now face unexpected denials or delays. Employers who sponsor foreign workers are also affected, as the rules make it harder to retain skilled staff.

The changes have been described as pulling the rug out from under everyone, with critics arguing they target low-income immigrants and families. Supporters say the rules protect American taxpayers by ensuring immigrants can support themselves without public benefits.

Legal challenges are expected, but for now, the new rules are in force, creating widespread uncertainty across the immigration system.