Former U.S. President Donald Trump has recently suggested a major change to the U.S. immigration system, proposing that international students graduating from U.S. colleges should automatically receive Green Cards.
This proposal marks a potential shift in how the U.S. manages immigration, particularly in retaining international talent.
Current Green Card System
Currently, the U.S. issues approximately 1.1 million permanent legal resident visas, or Green Cards, each year. Most of these are granted based on family ties to U.S. citizens rather than skills or employment. The Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows foreign nationals to live and work permanently in the United States. Obtaining one is a lengthy and complex process involving various visa categories and often long waiting periods.
A New Approach to Retain Talent
Trump’s proposal would create a direct pathway to residency for international students, potentially benefiting hundreds of thousands. This aligns with efforts to attract and retain top global talent, which could significantly boost the U.S. economy and innovation landscape.
Trump’s Vision for Immigration Reform
Trump’s proposal, referred to as the “Build America visa,” aims to grant Green Cards to foreign graduates as part of their diploma. He suggests reducing the number of family-sponsored visas, increasing merit-based visas, cutting humanitarian-based visas by half, and ending the diversity visa program.
The “Build America visa” would be based on a points system, evaluating factors like age, English proficiency, education, employment offers, investment potential, and knowledge of American history and government. Trump argues that the random selection of the Diversity Visa program is contrary to American values.
Trump’s Statement
Trump articulated his vision, saying:
“What I would like is a new legal immigration system that protects American wages, promotes American values, and attracts the best and brightest from all around the world. What I will do is you graduate from college, I think you should get automatically as part of your diploma a Green Card to be able to stay in this country.”
This policy would apply to graduates from all types of U.S. colleges, from junior colleges to doctorate programs.
A Shift in Immigration Policy
This proposal is a significant departure from Trump’s previous stances on immigration, which were often characterized by strict regulations and anti-immigrant rhetoric. During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump focused on border security and illegal immigration. His new proposal suggests a dramatic shift, aiming to streamline the process for skilled immigrants to remain in the U.S.
Balancing Security and Talent Retention
Trump’s proposal indicates a reevaluation of traditional conservative views on immigration, balancing border security concerns with the need to attract and retain global talent. He believes that providing a clear pathway to residency for graduates could enhance U.S. competitiveness in the global market.
Future Implications
If implemented, this policy could significantly alter the U.S. approach to immigration. Policymakers will need to determine its reception and its potential to influence future legislative changes. As the debate continues, the impact of such proposals on the U.S. economy and international students will be closely monitored.
Opposition from Democrats
Currently, Democrats do not support Trump’s merit-based immigration plan, indicating a continued debate over the best approach to U.S. immigration policy.
