Donald Trump Proposes Automatic Green Cards for Foreign Graduates, Boosting Opportunities for Indian Students. Former President Donald Trump has advocated awarding automatic green cards to foreign students who graduate from US institutions, which is a startling change from his traditionally strict immigration policy. During a recent interview on the “All-In” podcast, Trump remarked, “What I want to do and what I will do is, you graduate from a college, I think you should get a green card automatically as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country.” This plan would apply to graduates of two-year junior institutions as well as those pursuing doctorates.

Boost for Indian Students

Trump’s proposal represents a substantial boost for Indian students studying in the United States. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), over 200,000 Indian students enrolled in higher education in the United States during the 2022-23 academic year, representing a 35% increase over the previous year.

The increase in Indian student enrollments demonstrates the appeal of US educational institutions, which are known for their high-quality education, substantial research resources, and global reputation. Furthermore, the opportunity to obtain foreign experience and improve professional opportunities makes the United States a popular choice for many Indian students.

Shift away from anti-immigrant rhetoric

Trump’s remarks are a significant departure from his customary anti-immigrant rhetoric, which frequently portrays immigrants as risks to public safety, job security, and government resources. When stressing the need to import the “best and brightest” from all across the world, Trump stated, “I do promise.” He underlined the loss of highly trained graduates from top institutions who are forced to return to their home countries, only to become successful businesses that employ thousands.

Trump emphasized instances of graduates from prominent colleges who are unable to stay in the United States owing to visa constraints. “They go back to India and China. They do the same fundamental business in various places and become multibillionaires, employing hundreds and thousands of people.” he said.

Pathway to Citizenship

A green card, or permanent resident card, is an important step toward US citizenship. Trump’s plan seeks to keep talented individuals educated in the United States, challenging current regulations that frequently force these graduates to return to their home nations.

This suggestion comes just after President Joe Biden proposed a new road to citizenship for immigrants married to US citizens, balancing his previous severe actions on illegal border crossings. Trump’s statements underline the talent loss caused by present visa regulations, which he intends to address.

Clarifications from the Campaign Press Secretary

Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s campaign press secretary, later clarified that the policy would only apply to thoroughly vetted college graduates who can make major contributions to America, guaranteeing that it would not undermine American salaries or jobs. Leavitt underlined that Trump has proposed the most stringent vetting procedure in US history, excluding “all communists, radical Islamists, Hamas supporters, America haters, and public charges.”

Conclusion

Trump’s proposal to offer automatic green cards to foreign graduates of US institutions represents a substantial policy shift that might benefit thousands of overseas students, particularly those from India. This strategy might help keep highly talented workers in the United States, supporting innovation and economic growth while maintaining strict immigration rules.