New immigration restrictions have been announced in the United States following a tragic shooting incident in Washington, D.C., on November 26, 2025. The shooting, which occurred at 2:15 p.m. at the intersection of 17th and I NW streets, resulted in the death of National Guard soldier Sarah Beckstrom and left another soldier critically injured. The alleged shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, prompted a swift response from government officials, leading to significant changes in immigration procedures.
The shooting has intensified scrutiny over immigration protocols, particularly those affecting individuals from certain countries. In response, Donald Trump and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have implemented new restrictions aimed at enhancing national security. These measures include a suspension of immigration applications for Afghan citizens and a comprehensive review of Green Cards issued to migrants from countries deemed concerning.
Details of the New Measures
USCIS has announced that all immigration applications related to Afghan nationals are now indefinitely suspended. According to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, this suspension will remain in effect pending a thorough review of security measures and investigation protocols.
Additionally, a large-scale review of Green Cards issued to migrants from a list of “concerning countries” has been initiated. This list includes nations such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Venezuela, among others. The intent of this review is to ensure that every Green Card is reexamined to mitigate potential security threats.
Another critical aspect of the new policies is the suspension of asylum application reviews. Edlow stated that decisions on these applications will be halted until each case undergoes a rigorous inspection process. This change affects all asylum applications, including those generated through President Biden’s resettlement initiative.
Impact on Immigrants and Financial Benefits
The recent announcements also include a reduction in tax benefits for immigrants without legal status in the United States. Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary, confirmed that financial services companies will need to be vigilant in identifying suspicious financial activities involving undocumented immigrants, as these may pose risks to national security.
In addition, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has stated that monitoring of cross-border money transfers, particularly remittances, will be intensified. This move is intended to ensure that financial activities comply with new security protocols.
The shooting incident and its aftermath have raised concerns among green card holders and the broader immigrant community. Many are apprehensive about how these new measures will affect their status and opportunities in the United States.
The tragic event has underscored the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies in the U.S. As the nation grapples with security and humanitarian concerns, the implications of these changes will be closely watched by advocates, policymakers, and the affected communities.
As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for immigrants and those seeking entry into the United States to stay informed about the latest developments in immigration policy and procedures.
