WASHINGTON—President Trump issued an executive order mandating legal migrants seeking green cards to depart the United States and apply from their home countries. This policy change directly impacts individuals already living and working in the U.S. on various non-immigrant visas, including H-1B, L-1 and F-1 student visas. The directive targets those who would typically adjust their status domestically, forcing a costly international detour for permanent residency.
The new requirement imposes financial burdens on applicants and their U.S. employers. A round-trip international flight, consular fees and extended stays abroad for processing can cost individuals between $3,000 and $10,000 per person, depending on the home country and visa complexity. Airlines operating international routes, particularly to high-demand regions like India, China and Mexico, stand to gain from increased travel volume. Immigration law firms specializing in complex consular processing will also see a surge in demand and billable hours.
U.S. businesses, especially in technology, healthcare and research, are the primary losers. They face potential disruptions to their workforce, increased administrative costs and the risk of losing valuable employees who may choose not to undergo the process or find opportunities elsewhere. The National Association of Manufacturers, which represents over 14,000 companies, estimates the policy could cost its members millions in lost productivity and talent retention efforts. Many skilled workers may opt to leave the U.S. permanently rather than face the new process.
This executive action aligns with the president's long-standing promise to tighten immigration controls and prioritize domestic labor. Groups like the Federation for American Immigration Reform, which spent over $2.5 million lobbying in 2024, have consistently advocated for policies that reduce both legal and illegal immigration. Their influence within conservative circles pushed for measures that make it harder for foreign workers to remain in the U.S. permanently, fulfilling a key part of their agenda.
The policy risks pushing highly educated and skilled immigrants to competitor nations like Canada, Australia and European Union countries, which actively recruit global talent. This shift could weaken the U.S. competitive edge in critical innovation sectors over the next five to 10 years.
