On May 21, 2026, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199, emphasizing that adjustment of status, or Form I-485 green card applications, is a discretionary benefit and not an automatic entitlement, even where an applicant otherwise meets the legal eligibility requirements. While this guidance does not change the law, it signals a shift in how strictly USCIS officers will scrutinize applications. What is the New Memo About? The memo emphasizes that the standard, preferred