In a shift from his previous hardline stance on immigration, former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a proposal to grant automatic green cards to foreign students graduating from U.S. colleges. This initiative aims to retain talent and prevent graduates from returning to countries like India and China, where many become highly successful entrepreneurs.
Trump, who has consistently supported a merit-based immigration system, detailed his plan during an appearance on the "All-In" podcast. "Graduates from colleges, including junior colleges, should receive a Green Card along with their diploma, allowing them to stay and work in the U.S.," said Trump, who is 78.
A Green Card, officially known as a permanent resident card, allows individuals to live and work permanently in the United States.
This policy proposal marks a significant departure from Trump’s previous rhetoric on immigration. As the November presidential election approaches, immigration and the deportation of illegal immigrants remain key issues for voters.
Trump emphasized his belief in merit-based immigration: "If you graduate from a U.S. college, you should automatically receive a Green Card. This policy would include junior colleges as well." His comments came in response to a question from podcast host Jason Calacanis about enhancing the U.S.'s ability to attract and retain global talent.
Trump lamented the loss of top graduates who, unable to stay in the U.S., return to their home countries to establish successful businesses. "It’s tragic when we lose brilliant minds from Harvard, MIT, and other top schools. These individuals could contribute greatly to our economy if allowed to stay," he said. Trump reiterated a policy from his first term, advocating for Green Cards for foreign students graduating in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields.
During the podcast, hosted by venture capitalists Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks, and David Friedberg, Trump highlighted the need to keep top talent in the U.S.: "We must recruit and retain the best and brightest. This policy will end the current situation where top graduates are forced to leave."
Statistics on International Students
Trump’s proposal addresses a significant issue highlighted by the latest Open Doors report from the Institute of International Education, which showed over a million international students studying in the U.S. during the 2022-23 academic year. China and India were the top sources of these students, with China sending 289,526 students and India 268,923, marking a 35% increase for India compared to the previous year. These two countries accounted for 53% of all international students in the U.S. for that academic year.