Record Number of Green Cards Issued by U.S. in 2025

The United States government issued a record number of green cards in the fiscal year 2025, marking a significant increase in the number of immigrants allowed to permanently reside in the country. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), approximately 1.2 million green cards were granted, representing a 15% increase from the previous year.

This rise in green card issuances is attributed to several factors, including the Biden administration's policies aimed at increasing legal immigration pathways, which were continued under President Donald Trump’s current administration. Legal experts indicate that these policies focused on clearing backlogs and expanding eligibility for certain categories of immigrants, including family reunification and employment-based visas.

The USCIS data reveals that the largest group of recipients were family-sponsored immigrants, followed by individuals who obtained employment-based visas. The diversity visa lottery program, designed to promote immigration from countries with historically low rates of migration to the United States, also contributed to the overall numbers, with 55,000 green cards allocated through this program alone.

In parallel, the Department of Homeland Security reported an uptick in green card applications, reflecting heightened interest from immigrants seeking to secure permanent residency in the U.S. This trend aligns with global economic shifts and geopolitical factors, influencing migration patterns worldwide.

For Kenya, the number of green cards issued to its citizens also saw an increase. In the fiscal year 2025, approximately 5,500 Kenyans were granted permanent residency in the United States, a notable rise from previous years. This increase can be partly attributed to the diversity visa lottery, in which Kenya has traditionally been well-represented, as well as family-based immigration routes.

Immigration analysts note that the influx of Kenyan immigrants is reflective of broader African migration trends towards Western countries, driven by factors such as economic opportunity, educational prospects, and familial connections. The U.S. remains a popular destination for Kenyan professionals and students, who often seek to contribute to various sectors including technology, healthcare, and academia.

In response to the increased processing of green cards, the USCIS has implemented measures to streamline operations, including digital processing of applications and enhanced staffing. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to modernize immigration services and reduce processing times, which have historically been a point of contention among applicants and advocates.

Under the Trump administration, which took office in January 2025, there has been a continued commitment to facilitating legal immigration avenues, while maintaining strict enforcement against illegal immigration. This dual approach aims to balance security concerns with the economic benefits of a diverse and skilled immigrant population.

As the U.S. continues to navigate complex immigration dynamics, the record number of green cards issued in 2025 underscores the country's ongoing role as a leading destination for immigrants worldwide. Observers suggest that these trends may continue in the coming years, contingent upon evolving legislative and administrative priorities.