The Trump administration is preparing for sweeping reforms to the H-1B visa and green card systems—a shift that could significantly affect millions of international workers and students residing in the United States.
Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Commerce Secretary, has publicly criticized the current H-1B visa framework, branding it as exploitative and in urgent need of reform. “The H-1B process is broken. It enables foreign nationals to occupy roles that should go to Americans. Our companies should be focused on hiring citizens first. This is the time to prioritize American workers,” Lutnick posted online.
In a recent interview with a national broadcaster, Lutnick elaborated on the upcoming policy transformations, expressing concern over income disparities between U.S. citizens and green card holders. “I’m part of a major overhaul targeting both the H-1B and green card systems. The reality is troubling—the average American earns $75,000 annually, while green card recipients average around $66,000. We’re importing from the lowest earning bracket. Why is that acceptable?” he asked. “President Trump intends to fix this. The introduction of a ‘gold card’ system will mark a new direction. We will begin selecting only the most qualified individuals to enter the country.”
One of the key changes expected in the restructured H-1B program includes the removal of the current lottery mechanism. Instead, visas will likely be distributed based on salary levels, favoring higher-earning applicants. This concept was previously outlined in a draft policy that gained initial approval from U.S. authorities.
Such modifications are poised to have a substantial effect on Indian nationals, who consistently make up approximately 70% of all H-1B visa holders each year.
Since taking office, President Trump has steadily intensified immigration controls for foreign workers and students. Earlier this year, the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) Ombudsman—an agency that traditionally assisted immigrants with technical support for visa-related issues—was officially closed.
Adding to the changes, H-1B holders are now subject to stricter verification requirements. They must provide sensitive personal data, including biometric identifiers and residential information, which marks a shift from earlier procedures.
Further uncertainty surrounds the long-term future of green cards, especially after Vice President JD Vance remarked that permanent residency does not grant an absolute right to remain in the country. His comments have fueled speculation around Trump’s proposed “gold card” initiative, which is being promoted as a more selective and prestigious alternative to the existing green card system.
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