05/22/2026
We are deeply disturbed by the new guidance from USCIS indicating that foreign nationals seeking adjustment of status must do so through consular processing via the Department of State from outside of the country.
This is a reversal from standard practice and would have disproportionate impacts on Iranian nationals in light of the lack of consular services available to Iranians in Iran, wartime conditions in the country and separate bans and restrictions on issuing Iranians visas.
Does the U.S. government really expect Iranian nationals to return to their war-torn and blockaded country to apply for adjustment of status – in a country without consular services? Would Iranians instead be expected to travel to a third country that offers consular services to Iranians, and what hurdles might they encounter there? Or, would the administration grant clemency to Iranians in order to process their adjustment of status in the United States, as would be the right thing to do? Nothing published provides clarity.
This appears to be an attempt to not just close America off to all Iranians through travel bans and immigration processing pauses, but to try to force Iranians who are here legally to leave.
For Iranians present in the United States who could be impacted by this change, we urge you to consult an immigration lawyer before making any decisions that could impact your status. Our team is available to connect you with resources: [email protected].
