Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20. In his assertive inauguration speech, he swiftly signed numerous executive orders, signaling a robust return to the White House. Among these orders were significant and surprising changes to immigration policies. What do these changes mean for expatriates and those planning to move to the US?
The H-1B visa debate intensifies
Recently, the international press seemed reassuring about the H-1B visa, favored by technology companies. President Trump appeared open to preserving the visa, likely influenced by figures like Elon Musk. However, not all conservatives align with Trump on this matter, revealing a split within the party. On one side, Trump, Musk, and tech giants advocate for the visa, whereas on the other, conservative opponents such as Steve Bannon, Trump's 2016 campaign strategist, urge a stricter approach to both legal and illegal immigration. During his first term, Trump attempted to restrict the program, and skeptics like Bannon, who calls the H-1B a "scam," are unconvinced by Trump's recent shift, promising a "battle" against the visa and Musk, who is actively fighting his detractors.
In practice, the issuance of H-1B visas has declined in 2024. Amazon, the largest user of the visa, saw approvals drop to 7,000 from 11,000 the previous year, a trend mirrored by other tech companies. This reduction is attributed more to economic factors than political decisions, as the rapid advancement of AI technology and a challenging global economy have led companies to reduce their workforce. Despite these challenges, Musk remains committed to the H-1B visa, citing his personal experience as a beneficiary and announcing salary increases to attract foreign talent.
Trump's aggressive stance on illegal immigration
Donald Trump has reiterated his stringent stance on illegal immigration, promising to deport "millions and millions" of undocumented immigrants. A key symbol of his approach is the continuation of the wall construction along the Mexican border. Trump has also declared a state of emergency at this border, labeling undocumented immigrants as "criminals" and vowing their systematic removal. To deter potential illegal immigrants, he has signed executive orders that challenge the right to asylum and birthright citizenship, though these moves may conflict with the Constitution, particularly the 14th Amendment that establishes birthright citizenship.
Additionally, Trump plans to reinstate the "Stay in Mexico" policy from his first term. Under this policy, Central American asylum seekers must wait in Mexico while their cases are processed. This policy has led to the immediate cancellation of appointments for millions of Mexican applicants. Several Democratic states and organizations have criticized this decision and have pledged to challenge it legally.
Transgender rights under Trump: A reversal of progress?
Donald Trump's administration has signaled a return to more conservative policies on transgender issues, a move that has deeply concerned the LGBT+ community. Trump, vocal in his opposition to LGBT+ rights during his campaign, has announced intentions to halt "the transgender delusion" and end governmental support programs for transgender individuals. He asserts, "The official policy of the United States will be that there are only two genders, male and female," and plans to eliminate the option for a non-binary "X" gender designation on official documents such as passports and visas—a stark reversal from policies under President Biden.
Education is also targeted, with Trump vowing to terminate gender studies programs and the teaching of critical race theory. This shift has caused dismay among both expatriates and local citizens. Statements from the community reflect a growing fear and frustration: "Hearing our president's openly transphobic speech, which is applauded by many, is horrifying," shares one individual. Reports from LGBT+ associations indicate a surge in requests for support. A gay foreign student and activist voices a common concern: "I've been assaulted before; now, with the president against us, I fear it will get worse." Another adds, "As someone queer, I'm considering leaving the U.S. We're being denied the ability to live peacefully."
These policy changes and the atmosphere they foster may likely increase anti-trans violence, adding to the already significant challenges faced by foreigners and members of the LGBT+ community in America.
Mixed reactions among expats to Trump's presidency
The return of Donald Trump to the presidency has elicited a broad spectrum of reactions from expatriates and those considering moving to the United States, ranging from indignation and anger to indifference and even support. These sentiments are vividly expressed across online platforms where expats discuss the implications of Trump's promise to "make America great again."
Many expatriates express a profound disconnect between their personal experiences and Trump's divisive anti-immigration rhetoric. One long-term resident reflects, "What's happening in the United States leaves me speechless... It's not what I live. It's not what I see every day. People want to be together. But what are we going to do with a president who wants to divide us?" This sense of weariness often transitions into fatalism, with some adopting a wait-and-see approach, acknowledging the coexistence of the best and worst in the US.
Others are more vocal in their criticism of what they perceive as Trump's aggressive immigration policies. "Invasion? Yes, we are invaded by his anti-immigration speeches," declares one expat, who fears that today's rhetoric against undocumented individuals could tomorrow extend to all foreign nationals, potentially affecting temporary permits and increasing visa costs. There is a palpable concern that such policies might eventually restrict US residency to the wealthiest. Another expat criticizes the harmful labeling used by Trump: "Calling immigrants 'criminals' should be what's banned. The most violent, it's Trump."
These reactions underscore a community on edge, grappling with a political landscape that could reshape their lives and futures in the United States.
Rising concerns among prospective expats and refugees
Anxiety is one the rise among potential expatriates. Some fear sudden changes to their immigration status. "I am an international student set to arrive in the U.S. just after Trump's inauguration. Could this affect my study permit?" asked one concerned student. This uncertainty extends to prospective workers anxious about the security of their work permits.
The situation is even more critical for refugees and asylum seekers, particularly those who have seen their applications suddenly canceled. "It's a disaster. What are we going to do now? I've been living and working here for over 20 years and have been seeking regularization from the start!" one long-time resident lamented.
Uncertain future for dreamers
Dreamers, children who arrived in the U.S. under irregular circumstances and grew up here, are facing their own set of concerns. Under Joe Biden's administration, they received reassurances, as the former president campaigned on facilitating their path to regularization. However, the political landscape has shifted with Trump's return to office. Despite his December announcement that he would allow Dreamers to stay, his previous attempts to dismantle the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program established in 2012 have left many skeptical. "Will Trump follow through? In December, he said he would let us stay. But he had already tried to end Obama's program. I am not a foreigner. I am American," expresses a Dreamer, voicing the collective anxiety and their deep-rooted connection to the country they consider home.
Mixed views among expats
Among expatriates, there is a spectrum of opinions about Trump's immigration policies. Some support his tough stance on illegal immigration. "Trump wants to end illegal immigration; what's wrong with that? What don't you understand about the word 'illegal'? Fighting drug trafficking is good, right? So, why not combat illegal immigration? I have nothing against these individuals, but entering a country to make a life unlawfully is another matter. Trump at least has the courage to address this, and I hope he follows through," one supporter explains.
Conversely, other expatriates are skeptical about the implementation of his policies. "I think we're alarming ourselves over nothing. The H-1B visa won't disappear, nor will seasonal visas. We will always need immigrants. These are just announcements," suggests another, reflecting a common belief among some expatriates that significant changes are unlikely. "He won't follow through, just like in 2016, when he also wanted to end immigration. We're still here. Whether expat or immigrant, it's the same. We need solidarity. Trump makes a lot of noise, but reality will likely force him to moderate his stance. It's not policies alone that make the United States great—it's the people."
