Green Card Rules Could Change: What Applicants Should Know Now

A new immigration bill could make major changes to the U.S. Green Card system.

The proposal could change employment-based Green Cards, reduce some family-based immigration options and end the Diversity Visa Lottery.

But these changes are not law today.

Current Green Card rules are still in place. If you are eligible for permanent residence, now may be a good time to understand your options and prepare under the rules that currently apply.

Apply for a Green Card

What Is the New Green Card Proposal?

The Americans First Immigration Act was introduced in the U.S. Senate in September 2026.

The bill proposes major changes to the legal immigration system. It would create a more merit-based system and change how some people qualify for a Green Card.

The proposal still has to go through the legislative process before its changes could become law.

Employment-Based Green Cards Could Change

Today, people may qualify for employment-based Green Cards through categories such as EB-1, EB-2 and EB-3.

The proposed bill would move toward a points-based immigration system.

Applicants could receive points for factors such as:

  • Education
  • English-language skills
  • High-paying job offers
  • Military service
  • Special achievements

The proposal would also add requirements aimed at protecting U.S. workers during the hiring process.

For now, these are only proposed changes. Current employment-based Green Card rules continue to apply.

Family-Based Green Cards Could Become More Limited

The proposal could also make major changes to family-based immigration.

Under the bill, family-sponsored immigration would focus mainly on spouses and minor children.

Some immigration options for other family members could be reduced or removed.

This could make family-based immigration more limited if the proposal becomes law.

For now, current family-based Green Card categories remain available under existing immigration rules.

Diversity Visa Lottery Could End

The bill also proposes ending the Diversity Visa Lottery.

Instead of selecting applicants through the lottery, the proposal would use a points-based system that gives more value to skills, education, English ability and employment qualifications.

Again, this change has not taken effect.

The Diversity Visa program continues under current law unless new legislation is passed and becomes effective.

Thinking About a Green Card? Know Your Options Now

Immigration rules can change.

But this new proposal has not replaced the current Green Card system.

If you already qualify for permanent residence, you can still review the Green Card options available under current immigration law.

Depending on your situation, you may qualify through:

  • Family
  • Employment
  • Another eligible immigration category

For some eligible people already living in the United States, Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, may be used to apply for a Green Card without leaving the country.

Your eligibility depends on your immigration category, visa availability and other USCIS requirements.

Get Help Preparing Your Green Card Application

Applying for a Green Card can involve several forms and supporting documents.

Even a small mistake, missing document or incorrect answer can create problems with an application.

FileRight helps eligible applicants prepare immigration applications with step-by-step guidance.

The service can help you:

  • Understand which information you need
  • Prepare your application
  • Check for missing information
  • Reduce common application mistakes
  • Organize the documents needed for filing

Already Have a Green Card? Check Your Expiration Date

If you are already a permanent resident, it is also important to check when your Green Card expires.

Most Green Cards are valid for 10 years. If your card has expired or will expire soon, you may need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to renew it.

FileRight can help eligible Green Card holders prepare Form I-90 with step-by-step guidance and checks for missing or incomplete information.

Renew Your Green Card with FileRight

Act Now Under Current Green Card Rules

The proposed Green Card changes are still being considered.

They are not current law.

If you are applying for a Green Card, understanding your options now can help you prepare under the rules that are currently available.

If you already have a Green Card, checking its expiration date and starting your renewal early can help you avoid problems caused by an expired card.

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