Immigration Shake-Up: How the 'Americans First' Act Could Impact Migrants

A new US immigration bill proposes to eliminate the green card lottery and limit family-based visas, aiming for a merit-driven system. Introduced by Republican Congressman Barry Moore, the "Americans First Immigration Act" seeks to overhaul the legal immigration framework. If passed, the legislation would end the diversity visa lottery and restrict family sponsorship to immediate relatives. US citizens would no longer sponsor parents, siblings, or adult children for immigration. Family-based visas would be limited to spouses and minor children of citizens and green card holders. Extended family members could apply through merit-based pathways. Moore stated his bill prioritizes American workers. The proposal also aims to formalize immigration measures associated with Donald Trump's policies. At the core is a move to a points-based system, evaluating applicants on factors like English proficiency, education, salary, age, and military service. To be eligible, they must have a job offer paying at least double the average state wage. Employers would face stricter rules, needing to prove they tried to hire American workers. The Department of Labor would check that these rules are followed. Moore said that immigration should be earned through merit. The bill also introduces a mandatory pledge for migrants to support the US Constitution and renounce associations with certain practices. Julie Kirchner, senior advisor at the America First Policy Institute, supported the proposal. She added