NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. — Immigration advocacy organisation Make the Road States has criticised a newly announced United States immigration policy that could require certain immigrants seeking lawful permanent residency to leave the country and complete green card visa processing from their countries of origin.
The policy, announced by the Trump administration, has prompted concern among immigrant rights groups, who argue that the measure could disrupt families, employment, and long-term residency plans for many applicants currently living and working in the United States.
Make the Road States, a national organisation focused on immigrant and working-class communities, said the policy could create uncertainty for individuals seeking legal residency while increasing pressure on families already navigating the immigration system.
Maegan Llerena, Co-Executive Director of Make the Road States, issued a strongly worded response following the announcement.
“The Trump administration cannot stop itself from harming and separating families—this reckless new policy will unleash chaos and panic for the hundreds of thousands of immigrants seeking lawful permanent residence. Forcing people to leave their partners, children, and loved ones for an indefinite amount of time is a senseless and cruel policy. In addition to leaving their family, people will be forced to leave their jobs, creating a massive impact on our workforce. Rather than tackle high costs and the affordability crisis affecting working-class families, this administration is focused on chipping away at our freedoms – the freedom to thrive, to move, to be with the ones you love. We are hopeful that this policy is reversed and that families are allowed to remain together, not torn apart.”
The policy is part of a broader debate surrounding immigration procedures and residency pathways in the United States. Critics argue that requiring applicants to depart the country during the visa process could place financial and emotional strain on households, while supporters of stricter immigration controls say such measures are intended to reinforce compliance with existing immigration laws.
Business groups and labour advocates have also raised concerns in recent years about the economic consequences of immigration uncertainty, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on immigrant workers. Analysts note that prolonged absences from employment due to overseas visa processing could affect workforce stability in industries already facing labour shortages.
According to advocacy organisations, many immigrants currently applying for permanent residency have established lives in the United States, including employment, housing, and family responsibilities. Any requirement to leave the country temporarily could lead to complications involving childcare, income, and job continuity.
Yaritza Mendez, Deputy Director for Make the Road New York, said the announcement would increase anxiety among immigrant communities.
“The Trump administration has spent years terrorizing immigrant families, who live under the constant threat that any day their loved ones might be ripped away forever. Today’s announcement is the latest in their inhumane legacy of family separation and will have devastating impacts on hundreds of thousands of people. While this policy will surely be challenged in the courts, in the meantime, it will sow confusion and fear among people who are simply trying to live in safety and stability with their families.”
Legal experts expect immigration advocates and civil rights organisations to closely examine the policy, with potential legal challenges likely if the measure is formally implemented. Immigration policy has remained one of the most contested areas of United States public policy, with frequent court disputes over executive actions and administrative changes.
The announcement also arrives amid ongoing national discussions about labour markets, workforce participation, and affordability pressures affecting working-class households. Advocacy groups argue that immigration-related disruptions can have broader economic consequences, particularly for industries dependent on long-term immigrant labour participation.
While the full operational details of the proposed policy have yet to be clarified publicly, organisations representing immigrant communities say they are preparing to provide legal guidance and support to affected families.
For now, the debate is expected to continue as policymakers, legal experts, employers, and advocacy groups assess the implications of the proposed immigration changes and their potential impact on both families and the wider economy.
