According to a recent Newsweek report citing analysis from the Cato Institute, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has significantly reduced green card approvals — dropping by roughly 50% overall. Family-based green card approvals, which many Vietnamese families rely on, fell sharply by 54% between July 2025 and January 2026.

This major policy shift under the current Trump administration includes stricter vetting, expanded background checks, processing pauses for applicants from certain countries, and closer coordination between USCIS and ICE. As a result, many pending cases are moving much slower, creating longer wait times and increased uncertainty for immigrants and their U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsors.

Key Statistics (as of early 2026):

• Family-sponsored green card approvals dropped from 52,181 (July 2025) to 23,847 (January 2026)
• Overall green card grants reduced by about half compared to previous levels
• Processing of many applications has slowed significantly across family-based and humanitarian categories

What This Means for Vietnamese Applicants Many Vietnamese families in the United States sponsor spouses, parents, adult children, or siblings for permanent residency. With these reductions, family reunification is taking longer, causing stress and financial pressure for both sponsors and beneficiaries.

Employment-based green cards have remained relatively more stable, but family-based cases — the most common pathway for the Vietnamese community — are facing the biggest challenges.

Important Note: These changes do not mean all applications are denied. However, stricter screening, additional document requests, and longer processing times are now the new reality.

At Truong Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in helping the Vietnamese community navigate complex U.S. immigration matters. Our bilingual team closely monitors policy changes and provides strategic guidance to strengthen your case, respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and prepare for potential delays.

If you or your family have a pending green card application, adjustment of status, or are planning to sponsor a loved one, we strongly recommend reviewing your case now.

Contact Truong Law Firm, PLLC today for a consultation:

• Ho Chi Minh City: 0988 792 023
• Houston, Texas: +1 713 561 5595

We are here to help you protect your immigration future with confidence.

FAQ: Green Card Approvals Cut in Half – What Vietnamese Applicants Need to Know

1. 1. Is it still possible to get a green card in 2026? Yes. However, approval rates are lower and processing times are significantly longer, especially in family-based categories.
   2. Which category is most affected? Family-based green cards have seen the biggest drop (54%). Humanitarian categories are also heavily impacted, while employment-based is relatively more stable.
   3. Why is USCIS reducing green card approvals? The administration has implemented stricter vetting, security checks, and paused processing for applicants from certain high-risk countries to enhance national security.
   4. Will my pending green card application be affected? It may face longer delays or additional requests for evidence. Some cases from previous years are being re-reviewed.
   5. What should I do if I have a pending case? Contact an experienced immigration attorney immediately to review your file, prepare for possible RFEs, and ensure all documents are strong.
   6. How can Truong Law Firm help? We provide case evaluation, strategy advice, RFE responses, and representation tailored for the Vietnamese community.