Key U.S. Immigration Updates That Could Affect Turkish Citizens in the USA
As U.S. immigration policy continues to evolve, Turkish citizens and Turkish Americans living in the United States should remain informed about recent developments that may affect visa options, residency pathways, travel, and legal status. While no policy changes currently target Turkish nationals specifically, several broader immigration updates are relevant and worth close attention.
Below is a summary of the most important developments.
1. Introduction of a New “Gold Card” Residency Program
The U.S. administration has introduced a new investment-based residency pathway, commonly referred to as the “Gold Card” program. This initiative offers expedited U.S. residency for foreign nationals who make a minimum investment of $1 million, with higher thresholds for corporate applicants.
While this program does not replace existing immigration categories, it reflects a broader shift toward investment-driven immigration models and may be of interest to Turkish entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking permanent residency options in the United States.
What to know:
This is not a mass-market visa program
It does not affect current visa holders
It may coexist with, rather than fully replace, traditional programs such as EB-5
2. Expanded U.S. Travel Restrictions — Türkiye Not Affected
The U.S. government has expanded travel restrictions affecting several countries. Türkiye is not included on this list, and Turkish citizens with valid visas, green cards, or lawful status are not impacted by these measures.
However, the broader tightening of travel and entry policies underscores the importance of:
Maintaining valid immigration status
Keeping documentation current
Allowing extra time for visa processing and travel planning
3. Visa Fees and Processing Costs Have Increased
Recent updates to U.S. immigration regulations include increased visa-related fees and administrative costs across multiple visa categories.
While Turkish citizens are not eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and must already apply for visas, higher fees may affect:
Tourist visas (B-1/B-2)
Student visas (F-1)
Work visas (H-1B, O-1, etc.)
Change-of-status and extension filings
Applicants are encouraged to plan financially and apply early to avoid delays.
4. Positive Developments for J-1 Exchange Visitors and Researchers
Recent updates to the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program provide more flexibility for certain scholars, researchers, and professionals. In some cases, the long-standing two-year home residency requirement may be waived or relaxed.
This change is particularly relevant for:
Turkish graduate students
Academic researchers
Medical professionals and scientists
High-skilled exchange visitors seeking long-term career opportunities in the U.S.
Individuals should consult immigration counsel to understand how these updates apply to their specific situation.
5. Visa and Consular Services Remain Uneven
While U.S.–Türkiye consular relations have stabilized, visa appointment availability and processing times remain inconsistent, especially for non-immigrant visas.
Turkish citizens applying from within the U.S. or abroad should:
Expect longer wait times
Monitor embassy and consulate updates regularly
Prioritize urgent or time-sensitive applications
What Turkish Americans Should Know Right Now
There are no new U.S. immigration policies specifically targeting Turkish citizens
Türkiye is not subject to new travel bans
Immigration enforcement priorities remain stricter overall, making compliance essential
New opportunities may exist for investors, students, and researchers
TC-USA PAC Guidance
TC-USA PAC encourages Turkish Americans to:
Stay informed about evolving immigration rules
Seek qualified legal advice for visa or residency decisions
Engage in community advocacy to ensure Turkish-American voices are represented in U.S. policy discussions
As U.S.–Türkiye relations continue to evolve, immigration policy remains a key area where awareness, preparation, and civic engagement matter.
As the United States continues to recalibrate its immigration system in response to both domestic pressures and international dynamics, Turkish citizens—and those advising them — should monitor official sources such as the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the most accurate, real-time guidance.
Sources:
U.S. Nationality-Based Travel Ban and Entry Restrictions (Presidential Proclamation) KPMG
New U.S. Visa Fee Structures and ESTA/I-94 Updates Oguz Law
USCIS Work Authorization Validity Changes Welcome.US
USCIS Holds on Immigration Benefits for Nationals of Listed Countries KPMG
Executive Order 14159 and Immigration Enforcement Policies Wikipedia
Laken Riley Act Immigration Enforcement Law
