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U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has strongly criticized the H-1B visa program, calling it a “scam” that hurts American workers. His remarks signal major reforms that could deeply affect Indian professionals, who make up the largest group of H-1B holders.
Speaking to Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Lutnick said: “The current H-1B visa system is a scam that lets foreign workers fill American job opportunities. Hiring American workers should be the priority of all great American businesses.”
He explained that the administration plans to replace the current lottery-based H-1B system with a wage-based model, favoring higher-paid applicants. “We’re going to change that program because that’s terrible. We’re going to change the green card,” he added.
Lutnick also attacked the green card system, pointing to income levels as proof of misplaced policy. “We give green cards – the average American makes $75,000 a year and the average green card recipient $66,000 a year. Why are we doing that? It’s like picking the bottom core,” he said.
He stressed that under Donald Trump’s leadership, immigration policy will focus on skilled and wealthy individuals. “That’s why Donald Trump is going to change it that’s where the Gold Card is coming, and with that we’re going to start picking the best people,” Lutnick stated.
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Lutnick revealed details of a planned “Gold Card” program, designed to attract wealthy foreigners by offering permanent U.S. residency in exchange for at least $5 million in investments.
He said interest in the scheme is already overwhelming, with nearly 250,000 potential applicants worldwide signaling they want to take part. If the initiative moves forward, it could bring in as much as $1.25 trillion in new investment to the U.S. economy.
Lutnick described the program as a bold shift from past policies. He said it would allow the U.S. to “pick the best people” rather than relying on what he called outdated visa systems. “That’s the gold card that’s coming. And that’s where we’re gonna start picking the best people to come into this country. It’s time for that to change,” he explained.
The commerce secretary also framed the proposal as part of Donald Trump’s broader immigration strategy, which aims to prioritize wealth, skills, and economic contribution over the current lottery-based approach. By tying residency to investment, Lutnick argued, the U.S. could boost growth, create jobs, and ensure only top-tier applicants gain entry.
Supporters inside the administration see the Gold Card as a way to fund America’s future without raising taxes. But critics warn it could create a system where only the wealthy can secure U.S. residency, sidelining talented professionals who cannot meet the steep financial bar.
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