Eric Welsh was recently quoted in NPR’s article, “Under Trump, Spouses of U.S. Citizens Face Policy Changes in the Immigration System,” shedding light on how the Trump Administration’s policy changes are impacting green card applicants, specifically those married to U.S. citizens.
Since Trump’s return to office in 2025, changes in immigration policy have led to increased scrutiny of green card applications through more in-depth vetting, including additional interviews and requests for more extensive financial documentation. Eric explains to NPR that applicants are increasingly being asked detailed questions about “when and how they applied for a green card,” and to provide evidence of “good moral character,” which was not previously required for those seeking permanent residency or citizenship through marriage.
He continues to stress the vulnerability of the spouses of U.S. citizens, noting that obtaining a green card or U.S. citizenship is not guaranteed. He warns, “There’s no absolute right to remain and there’s no absolute right to be afforded adjustment to status. And so I think that’s something that most people don’t commonly understand, especially not the U.S. citizens.”
