In a crucial and timely policy announcement, former President Donald Trump has put forth a groundbreaking immigration initiative. The aim is to retain top international talent within the United States, a need that has become increasingly urgent. Today, Trump unveiled his plan to grant green cards to all foreign graduates as soon as they receive their diplomas.
Trump emphasized the importance of this policy by stating, “We will give green cards to foreign graduates with their diplomas.” He assured that this would be implemented on day one of his administration. The proposed policy is designed to allow foreign graduates who study in the US to remain in the country, build companies, and contribute to American businesses.
Due to immigration challenges and the green card backlog that runs for almost a century for Indians living in the US, immigrants have been leaving the US to find better opportunities elsewhere. Trump alluded to this and said he does not want to lose top talent.
“This policy will ensure that we don’t lose talented individuals to countries like India or China. We need the best and the brightest to stay here and help build our American companies,” Trump stated. He expressed his respect for international students, highlighting that he does not want those who come from India to return home after their studies, thus addressing a long-standing concern within the Indian American community.
This announcement comes amid increasing pressure on the Biden administration from Indian Americans and other immigrant communities to address the significant backlog and challenges faced by Indian immigrants seeking permanent residency in the US. Despite being in power for nearly four years, the Biden administration has not taken sufficient action to address this backlog. Moreover, Democrats have indicated that they have no immediate plans to address these concerns.
Just yesterday, multiple Indian American Organizations and leaders expressed their disappointment with the Biden Administration, as he left Documented Dreamers and green card backlog immigrants out of his new executive order.
Trump’s proposal, which includes green cards for graduates of two-year and four-year degree programs, aims to make America more competitive by ensuring that educated and skilled individuals can seamlessly transition from student to permanent resident. By facilitating the retention of international talent, Trump’s plan seeks to bolster the US economy and foster innovation by allowing graduates to contribute to the workforce and start new ventures immediately.
As this announcement gains traction, it is poised to spark substantial debate and discussion. The focus will be on its potential to reshape the US immigration system and its far-reaching implications for the broader economy. This is a policy that demands our attention and thoughtful consideration.
Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma is a Senior Journalist who has lived in Washington DC since 2007. He currently is a contributor to Dainik Bhaskar, the world's third largest newspaper by readership. His opinion pieces feature on News 9 and The Quint. He has been invited as guest on the BBC, NDTV, India Today, AajTak, Times Now, Republic, Zee news and others. His work has featured in six Indian Languages.
