On May 21, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199 regarding adjustment of status applications filed inside the United States. Since the memo was released, many immigrants and families have understandably felt anxious and overwhelmed by reports suggesting that obtaining a green card through adjustment of status may become more difficult.

At Global Law Advocates PLLC, we understand these concerns and want clients to know that, while the memo may affect how USCIS reviews cases, much remains unclear about how the policy will be applied in practice.

Most importantly, the memo does not eliminate adjustment of status, and it does not mean that every case will be denied or that everyone must leave the United States for consular processing abroad.

What the Policy Memo Says

The memo emphasizes that adjustment of status is considered a discretionary immigration benefit. This means that even if someone technically qualifies under the immigration laws, USCIS officers may still review the overall circumstances of the case before deciding whether to approve the application.

The memo instructs USCIS officers to take a broader look at each applicant’s immigration history and other discretionary factors when reviewing adjustment applications. It also suggests that officers may consider whether consular processing abroad would be more appropriate in some situations.

The policy appears to signal increased scrutiny of adjustment of status cases, especially in situations involving:

• Prior immigration violations
• Issues related to visa intent
• Gaps in lawful status
• Prior immigration filings or inconsistencies
• Use of temporary visas or parole
• Other discretionary concerns

However, USCIS has not yet provided detailed guidance explaining exactly how officers will apply this policy in day-to-day adjudications.

What the Memo Does Not Mean

Because there has been a lot of alarming commentary online, it is important to separate confirmed information from speculation. At this time:

• Adjustment of status is still available under U.S. immigration law.
• Family-based green card applications are still being accepted.
• Employment-based adjustment applications are still being accepted.
• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens may still qualify for adjustment if otherwise eligible.
• USCIS has not announced automatic denials for any category of applicants.

The memo is a policy guidance document for immigration officers. It is not a new law passed by Congress, and many questions remain about how broadly the policy will actually be enforced.

What We Are Advising Clients Right Now

At this stage, we encourage clients not to panic or make rushed decisions based on fear or incomplete information. Every immigration case is different. Whether adjustment of status remains a good option depends on each person’s individual circumstances, including how they entered the U.S., prior immigration applications or petitions, current immigration status, family relationships, travel history, and other overall discretionary factors.

For many applicants, adjustment of status may still be the best and safest option available. For others, additional analysis may be needed before deciding whether to file now, wait, or explore consular processing alternatives.

Our Approach at Global Law Advocates PLLC

Our office is closely monitoring developments related to this policy memo and awaiting further guidance from USCIS and DHS regarding how the policy will be implemented.

In the meantime, we will continue to evaluate every case carefully and individually and advise our clients on eligibility, potential risk factors, timing, and other strategy considerations.

We expect additional clarification and legal developments in the coming weeks and months, and we will continue advising clients based on the most current guidance and practical adjudication trends.

A Message to Clients and Families

We understand that many immigrants and families are feeling fearful and uncertain right now. These concerns are understandable, especially when immigration policies affect family stability and future plans.

Please remember that a policy memo does not automatically determine the outcome of your case. Immigration law remains highly fact-specific, and each case must be evaluated individually.

Global Law Advocates PLLC remains committed to helping clients navigate these changes carefully, strategically, and compassionately. If you have questions about your eligibility for adjustment of status or concerns about how this new memo may affect your case, we encourage you to contact our office for an individualized consultation.

Immigration attorney Inna Scott and her team at Global Law Advocates specialize in helping immigrants of all kinds gain legal status and other immigration benefits in the United States. To consult with an experienced attorney about your immigration options, call us at 206-774-8758 or send us an email at info@globallawadvocates.com