Trump Administration Announces Major H1B Visa and Green Card Overhaul

The Trump administration has unveiled plans for a significant reform of the U.S. immigration system for skilled workers. Key changes target the H1B visa program and the employment-based Green Card process. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the upcoming policy shifts. The reforms aim to prioritize higher-wage foreign workers. This move could dramatically impact the tech industry.

According to Lutnick, the current system is flawed. He stated the administration is actively working on these changes. The goal is to attract what he called “the best people.” This announcement has created immediate uncertainty for thousands of prospective immigrants and their employers.

Planned H1B Visa and Green Card Changes Explained

Secretary Lutnick called the current H1B program “terrible.” He promised a comprehensive overhaul during a Fox News interview. The H1B visa is highly popular among Indian IT professionals. It allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized occupations.

The administration also plans to change the Green Card system. Lutnick cited wage data to justify the reforms. He noted the average American salary is around $75,000. The average Green Card recipient earns approximately $66,000. He argued the U.S. should not accept the “bottom quartile” of earners.

Rationale Behind the Proposed Immigration Reforms

The push for reform is based on a “America First” ideology. Officials argue the current system disadvantages American workers. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis echoed these sentiments. He labeled the H1B program a “total scam” in a separate interview.

DeSantis claimed companies game the system. He said firms lay off Americans while simultaneously renewing H1B visas. He also criticized the program’s geographic concentration. Most H1B visas are awarded to workers from one country: India.

Another criticism focused on worker mobility. H1B visas tie an employee to a specific sponsoring company. DeSantis described this arrangement as akin to “indentured servitude.” The proposed changes would likely address these perceived issues directly.

The proposed H1B visa and Green Card changes represent a fundamental shift in U.S. immigration policy. Their implementation would prioritize high-wage, highly skilled foreign talent. This could reshape the workforce for countless American industries in the years ahead.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

What is the main goal of the proposed H1B changes?

The primary goal is to prioritize higher-wage foreign workers. The administration believes the current system brings in lower-wage talent. They want to attract what they call “the best and brightest.”

How might the Green Card process change?

The new system may favor applicants with higher earning potential. It could move away from a lottery system. Instead, it may select immigrants based on skills and salary offers.

Who is most affected by these H1B visa changes?

Indian IT professionals are the largest group of H1B recipients. U.S. tech companies that rely on this talent pool are also significantly impacted. The changes could affect their hiring strategies.

What is the “Gold Card” mentioned by officials?

While details are scarce, the “Gold Card” appears to be a new concept. It likely refers to a streamlined visa or Green Card for highly exceptional talent. It would be reserved for top-tier earners and innovators.

When will these changes take effect?

There is no official implementation timeline yet. Proposed rule changes must go through a formal federal review process. This includes a public comment period before any finalization.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, Fox News.