A major immigration proposal introduced in the United States is drawing nationwide attention after lawmakers unveiled plans that could dramatically reshape how Green Cards and visas are issued in the future. If passed, the legislation could change long-standing immigration pathways, eliminate the Diversity Visa Lottery programme and introduce a stricter merit-based system focused on skills, income and economic contribution.
The proposal, introduced by Alabama Representative Barry Moore, is called the “Americans First Immigration Act.” Supporters say the bill is designed to prioritise American workers and strengthen the economy, while critics argue it could make legal immigration significantly harder for families and future applicants.
The legislation represents one of the boldest attempts in recent years to overhaul the US immigration system and could affect millions of people hoping to live, work or build a future in the United States.
A Shift Away From the Current Immigration System
Under the current immigration structure, Green Cards are issued through a mix of family sponsorships, employment-based visas and programmes such as the Diversity Visa Lottery. The new proposal would reduce reliance on random selection and extended family sponsorships while placing greater emphasis on merit, education, English language ability and earning potential.
Lawmakers backing the proposal argue that the immigration system should favour applicants who can immediately contribute to the American economy through specialised skills and higher-paying employment.
According to reports, the bill would significantly narrow several existing legal immigration pathways while creating a points-based evaluation system similar to those used in countries such as Canada and Australia.
Diversity Visa Lottery Could Be Eliminated
One of the most controversial parts of the proposal is the plan to eliminate the Diversity Visa Lottery programme entirely.
The programme currently grants thousands of Green Cards each year through a random selection process to applicants from countries with historically lower immigration rates to the United States. For many families around the world, the lottery has long been viewed as one of the few accessible opportunities to legally immigrate to the US.
If the new legislation moves forward, those opportunities could disappear and be replaced with a competitive points-based model.
What a Merit-Based System Could Look Like
Instead of random selection, applicants could be evaluated using a scoring system based on factors such as:
- Education level
- English proficiency
- Age
- Professional experience
- Salary offered by a US employer
- Military service or specialised skills
Reports suggest applicants may also need to secure a job offer paying at least double the median wage in the state where they plan to live. This would create a much higher entry threshold for employment-based immigration.
Supporters believe the changes would attract highly skilled workers and reduce strain on the labour market, while opponents warn the rules could disadvantage middle-income applicants and families seeking reunification.
Family Sponsorship Rules May Become Stricter
The proposal also seeks to reduce certain family-based immigration categories, particularly those involving extended family sponsorships. While immediate family members may still receive priority, broader sponsorship pathways could become more limited under the proposed reforms.
Advocacy groups supporting the legislation say the current system places too much emphasis on chain migration rather than economic value.
Immigration Policies Already Becoming Tougher
The proposed bill comes amid a broader tightening of immigration policies in the United States. In recent years, immigration authorities have increased application scrutiny, expanded background checks and introduced stricter visa review procedures.
Several immigration-related programmes have already faced pauses, delays or additional screening measures. Experts say the latest proposal reflects a growing political push toward stricter legal immigration standards and a system more focused on economic contribution.
What This Could Mean for Green Card Holders
Although the bill has not yet become law, immigration experts say current Green Card holders and applicants should closely monitor policy developments and ensure their records, renewals and immigration documents remain up to date.
Changes to immigration laws can often lead to processing delays, increased scrutiny and evolving eligibility requirements. Taking early action may help applicants avoid complications if new policies are introduced in the future.
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