In 2025, the U.S. green card system has undergone several major changes that affect millions of potential immigrants around the world. This article breaks down the newest updates, explains what they mean in real life, and compares the U.S. system with immigration policies in other countries. The goal is to clearly explain the topic and make it easier to understand.
Green Cards Can Now Be Canceled More Easily
The U.S. Department of Justice recently argued in a federal court (Third Circuit Court of Appeals) that the Attorney General has the power to reevaluate, and potentially cancel, a green card — no matter how long the person has held it. If the court agrees, this would set a precedent allowing permanent resident status to be revoked in more cases than before. This introduces a new level of uncertainty for green card holders.
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New Tax on Remittances for Non-Citizens
The U.S. is proposing a 5% tax on all remittances (money sent abroad) made by non-citizens, which includes green card holders. This means that people sending money back to countries like the Philippines ,India or Mexico may face significant extra costs. For Indian families especially, this could lead to over a billion dollars in new taxes every year.
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Marriage Green Card Rules Tighter Than Before
In 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated forms and procedures for those applying for a green card through marriage. Now, the process requires more documentation and stricter interviews to prove that the marriage is real. These new rules aim to prevent fraud but also make the process harder for legitimate couples.
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https://www.boundless.com/blog/uscis-quietly-tightens-marriage-green-card-procedures
Diversity Visa Program (DV-2026) Details
The Diversity Visa (DV) lottery for 2026 started registration on October 2, 2024, and closed on November 7, 2024. A key rule to note is that anyone who submits more than one entry will be disqualified entirely. This lottery still gives 50,000 people from underrepresented countries the chance to get a green card.
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Trump’s New “Golden Visa” Proposal
Donald Trump has announced a plan for a new Golden Visa system. Under this program, wealthy foreigners can invest $5 million in the U.S. economy and get a path to permanent residence and even citizenship. It is designed to replace the EB-5 investment visa program and attract rich investors.
Link:
https://www.ft.com/content/d93a408e-b598-4e37-aad7-21f07d353c34
Global Comparison: How Does the U.S. Stack Up?
Canada
Canada uses a points-based system and favors skilled workers, students, and family reunification. Its Express Entry system often processes applications faster and offers a more welcoming path to permanent residency.
Australia
Like Canada, Australia uses a points-based system that rewards youth, language ability, and skilled work experience. It’s a structured and transparent process but can be competitive.
New Zealand
New Zealand also favors skilled workers and uses a similar points-based immigration model. It places emphasis on qualifications and job offers that contribute to the local economy.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE has introduced its own “Golden Visa” for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals, offering 5 –10 year renewable residence permits. This program has gained popularity for offering long-term stability in the Gulf region.
As a Conclusion
2025 is a year of big shifts in the U.S. immigration policy. From the possibility of green card revocation, to new taxes, to stricter marriage evaluations — it’s clear that the green card is no longer as stable or simple as it once was. At the same time, other countries are trying to attract immigrants by offering easier and sometimes more secure residency paths.
For anyone considering immigration, the key takeaway is this: do your homework, stay up to date, and understand all your options; not just in the U.S., but around the world.
See one more interesting article here : https://infovibe.net/the-colorful-tapestry-of-the-united-states-a-nation-of-many-worlds/
