On November 5, 2024, Donald Trump was elected to serve his second term as President of the United States, sparking widespread speculation about the future of U.S. immigration policy. Much of his campaign focused on restricting illegal immigration, however, Trump’s past policies and rhetoric suggest potential changes to the legal immigration system as well. This is relevant to German citizens or other nationalities seeking work-opportunities or trying to immigrate into the U.S.. This article is part of a series that examines the impact of Trump’s presidency on the Diversity Visa Program, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery.
What Is The Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Program)?
The Diversity Visa (DV) Program currently provides 55,000 visas annually to applicants from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United State, including Germany. Roughly 500 German citizens are selected through the DV Program each year. As millions apply each year, chances to be selected are incredibly low but there is no fee associated with applying and applicants can apply each year again until they are selected. Additionally the bar of entry bis relatively low, with applicants only needing a completed high school degree or equivalent or two years of work experience within the past 5 years in a field of work that requires at least two years’ training or experience.
What Has Trump Said?
During his first term, Trump voiced his opposition to the program in a series of tweets on twitter: We are fighting hard for Merit Based immigration, no more Democrat Lottery Systems. We must get MUCH tougher (and smarter). He also stated, “The terrorist came into our country through what is called the ‘Diversity Visa Lottery Program,’ a Chuck Schumer beauty,” Trump tweeted on Wednesday. “I want merit based.” He later followed these comments up in an interview:
“I am today starting the process of terminating the diversity lottery program. I am going to ask Congress to immediately…get rid of this program,”
Despite Trump’s strongly voiced opposition of the Diversity Visa Program, there was no significant progress made during his first presidency to eliminate the program. The Trump administration was able to introduce some restrictions to the program, such as introducing passport requirements, which disproportionately affected low-income applicants. These changes, while significant, did not fundamentally alter the program.
The Green Card Lottery’s Future
Since its inception, the program has survived a number of repeal attempts. It is difficult to predict if Trump will focus on eliminating the Diversity Lottery during his second term, and if so how successful the attempt would be. Trump stated in the past that he wants to introduce a “merit-based” system, but has not offered any specifics on how this new system would function. Establishing a merit-based immigration system, would require passage of comprehensive legislation through Congress, would fundamentally change the U.S. immigration system.
If successful, the removal of the program’s would close a pathway for many German and other foreign citizens seeking permanent residence in the U.S. Without this program, aspiring immigrants from these regions may need to rely on more restrictive or competitive avenues to obtain green cards. Even if the Diversity Visa Program is not eliminated, further restrictions or changes to the program are likely to be introduced during Trump’s second term. This makes it essential for individuals navigating U.S. immigration laws to have competent legal representation. The experienced attorneys atUrban Thier & Federer are well-equipped to guide clients through the evolving landscape of immigration policies, ensuring their rights and opportunities are protected. Contact us today for expert assistance in achieving your immigration goals.