Big Jolt for Indians in US: Trump Plans Major Overhaul in H-1B and Green Card Rules

International News:For millions of foreign professionals and students living in the United States, a major policy shift seems to be on the horizon. The Trump administration has signaled sweeping changes to the H-1B visa and green card programs, which could hit Indian workers and students the hardest. Currently, Indians account for nearly 70% of all H-1B visa holders.

US Finance Minister Calls H-1B a 'Fraud'

US Finance Minister Howard Lutnick, in an interview with Fox News, strongly criticized the H-1B system. Calling it “a fraud,” he argued that American jobs should first benefit American citizens. Lutnick pointed out a wage gap, saying:

• The average American earns $75,000 a year
• A green card holder earns about $66,000

“Why,” he asked, “are we choosing lower-paid workers over citizens?”

Lutnick hinted that the administration is preparing to introduce a new “Gold Card” system, aimed at attracting only the most talented and highly paid individuals from around the world.

End of H-1B Lottery? Salary to Decide Visa

Another significant proposal under consideration is to scrap the current lottery-based system for H-1B visas. Instead, visas may be issued based on salary levels, giving preference to applicants in high-paying jobs.

If implemented, this will make it harder for:

• Fresh graduates
• Entry-level professionals
• Workers in small or mid-sized businesses

Such workers, who often earn less than those at large tech firms, could struggle to qualify for visas.

New Hurdles for Green Card Applicants

The administration is also working on reforms to the green card process. Trump’s proposed “Gold Card” program could become a new gateway, prioritizing high-skilled, high-salaried individuals over others. Vice President JD Vance has gone further, questioning whether a green card should even grant permanent residency rights, sparking uncertainty among long-term immigrants in the US.

What It Means for Indians

Given that Indians make up the majority of H-1B recipients, they will likely face the greatest impact of these changes. The new rules could mean:

• Compulsory submission of biometric and personal data
• Tighter background checks
• Increased paperwork and documentation

This will not only lengthen the visa process but also make it more stressful for applicants.

Immigration Support Becoming Harder

Since Donald Trump returned to power earlier this year, the administration has steadily tightened immigration rules. The Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) help centers, which earlier assisted applicants, have already been shut down, making it difficult for foreign workers and students to get guidance during the visa process.