Trump administration faces growing backlog in legal immigration applications

Published August 6, 2026 4:11pm ET | Updated August 6, 2026 4:11pm ET



The Trump administration faces a growing backlog of legal immigration applications from foreigners outside the United States, as well as millions in the country and looking to change their legal status.

Approximately 7.5 million people, the highest number ever, are waiting in line to see if they will be approved for U.S. citizenship, a green card, or work permit, according to new data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.