In an unexpected departure from his usual tough stance on immigration, former President Donald Trump unveiled his proposal to automatically grant green cards to foreign students upon graduating from American colleges.
Speaking on the “All-In” podcast, Trump stated, “My intention and what I will enact is that upon graduation from a college, you should receive a green card automatically with your diploma, giving you the right to stay in the country.” He further extended this offer to graduates from two-year junior colleges and doctoral programs.
This shift in policy by Trump is particularly beneficial for students from India who are pursuing education in American colleges. The number of Indian students pursuing higher education in the United States soared to unprecedented levels during the academic year 2022-23, as per a recent report. This surge marked a remarkable 35% increase from the previous year.
According to data from the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 200,000 Indian students have enrolled in various institutions across the United States, setting a new record. This notable increase underscores the growing trend of Indian students venturing abroad for educational opportunities, especially in the U.S.
The report identified several reasons for this upward trend, such as the superior quality of education, extensive research facilities, and the global prestige of American universities. Moreover, the chance to acquire international exposure and improve career prospects has made the U.S. a preferred choice for Indian students.
Trump’s statements signaling a shift from his anti-immigrant rhetoric, which typically depicts immigrants as a menace to public safety, job stability, and government resources, are significant. When questioned about his intentions to attract the “best and brightest” individuals worldwide, Trump assured, “I do give my word.”
He cited stories of highly skilled graduates from top colleges who are forced to return to their home countries, such as India and China, due to visa restrictions, only to become successful entrepreneurs employing thousands of people.
“I know of stories where people graduated from a top college, or from a college, and they desperately want to stay here… and they can’t. They go back to India, they go back to China,” Trump said.
A green card, or permanent resident card, is a crucial step towards US citizenship. Trump’s plan aims to retain talented individuals who have received their education in the United States, countering current policies that often see these graduates returning to their home countries.
The Republican candidate’s remarks came shortly after President Joe Biden announced a new pathway to citizenship for immigrants married to US nationals, balancing his recent strict measures on illegal border crossings.
Trump highlighted the loss of talent due to current visa policies, saying, “I know of stories where people graduated from a top college, or from a college, and they desperately want to stay here… and they can’t. They go back to India, they go back to China. They do the same basic company in those places and they become multibillionaires employing thousands and thousands of people.”
The former president’s campaign press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, later clarified that Trump’s proposal would only apply to thoroughly vetted college graduates who can make significant contributions to America, and would not undercut American wages or workers. She emphasized that Trump has outlined the most aggressive vetting process in US history to exclude “all communists, radical Islamists, Hamas supporters, America haters and public charges.”
