Major US Immigration Changes in 2025: Streamlined Green Card Process, Expanded Work Authorization

The United States is set to implement significant immigration reforms in June 2025, aimed at modernizing and streamlining various processes. One of the most notable changes is the rollout of a new digital platform by USCIS for green card applications.

Online Green Card Applications

Applicants seeking lawful permanent residency in the U.S. will now be able to submit forms like the I-485 online through this new platform. This digital transformation is expected to reduce processing times for green card applications by up to 20%, providing a more efficient and user-friendly experience.

Expanded Work Authorization for Visa Holder Spouses

Another major change involves the expansion of work authorization for spouses of H-1B and L-1 visa holders. H-4 and L-2 visa holder spouses will now have broader eligibility for work authorization, with application processing times expected to drop to 60 days or less.

Updates to the U.S. Citizenship Test

The U.S. citizenship test is also undergoing updates to ensure it remains relevant and reflects the latest developments in American society and history. These changes aim to provide a more comprehensive assessment of an applicant's knowledge and understanding of the United States.

AI-Driven Visa Bulletin Modernization

Furthermore, the visa bulletin system, which determines the availability of immigrant visas, is being modernized with the integration of an AI-driven system. This system will leverage advanced algorithms to predict visa number availability more accurately, providing greater transparency and predictability for applicants.

These changes are part of the U.S. government's efforts to enhance the immigration system's efficiency, accessibility, and fairness. By leveraging technology and data-driven solutions, the process is expected to become more streamlined, reducing wait times and improving the overall experience for applicants.