Washington: The United Ambassadors-at-Large for global integration in the United States, led by its Lebanese President Dr. Graziella Seif, has issued a comprehensive statement addressing the concerns of Lebanese citizens and others affected by recent changes in U.S. immigration policies. The statement comes in response to the freeze on immigrant visa issuance for 75 countries, including Lebanon, which has heightened anxiety among communities with ties to the U.S.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the expiration of the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) program has left many Lebanese nationals facing legal uncertainties regarding their residency status. The program, which offered protection to Lebanese citizens for 18 months following the security events in the summer of 2024, expired on January 25, 2026. In response, Dr. Seif has outlined several legal pathways to help Lebanese citizens maintain lawful status in the U.S. until normal visa operations resume.
The administrative decision to freeze certain visas is described as a "procedural freeze" rather than a cancellation of rights. It primarily affects the processing of Permanent Residency (Green Cards), family reunification files, and Diversity Visa winners. Temporary non-immigrant visas, such as visitor, student, or work visas, remain unaffected. The policy is intended to protect the U.S. from "Public Charge" burdens while establishing a secure system for those seeking a legal presence.
To ensure legal continuity and protection from deportation, several actions are recommended for Lebanese nationals in the U.S. These include transitioning from DED to Temporary Protected Status (TPS), retaining documentation, and applying for Adjustment of Status. Additional recommendations include observing the 90-day rule for visa conversion, delaying travel, updating sponsors' financial information, and avoiding public assistance to prevent classification as a public charge.
For those outside the U.S., consular appointments continue, with exceptions possible for urgent cases. High-achieving individuals are encouraged to seek visas based on talent or qualifications, and dual nationals are advised to leverage their second nationality for re-filing applications. General compliance includes maintaining clean records, improving English proficiency, and securing private health insurance.
President Seif emphasizes that strict adherence to legal procedures is crucial for protecting rights and reassures the Lebanese diaspora of their significant contributions globally.