A new USCIS policy memo (PM-602-0199) increases discretionary scrutiny for Adjustment of Status applications, particularly affecting non-immigrant visa holders like F-1 students and B-1/B-2 visitors, while H-1B and L-1 holders remain better protected due to dual-intent status.
US non-immigrant visa applicants now face new questions about experiencing or fearing harm in their home countries, with affirmative answers potentially leading to denial. This change could impact future asylum claims, as applicants might be challenged on the veracity of their statements. Immigration experts suggest these questions target legal immigrants who might later seek asylum.
An Indian-origin student from Andhra Pradesh, Chandu Iraganaboyina, studying in Chicago, has allegedly died by suicide. Police are investigating how he obtained a firearm on a non-immigrant visa, with friends and family citing severe financial stress as a potential cause. The Telugu community in the US has initiated a fundraiser to repatriate his body.
