ASSIMILATION Act would cut family visas, double naturalization wait to 10 years

What does this do?

The ASSIMILATION Act would eliminate the diversity visa lottery, which currently issues 55,000 green cards per year, and end family-based sponsorship for parents, adult children, and siblings of US citizens. It would shift toward a merit-based work visa system, cap H-1B visas at 50,000 per year, end Optional Practical Training for international students, and redefine birthright citizenship to apply only when at least one parent is a citizen or legal permanent resident. The naturalization waiting period would double from five to ten years, with new requirements for English ability, tax payment history, and limited use of government benefits.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects immigrants seeking green cards through family or the diversity lottery, international students, asylum seekers, H-1B workers, and people seeking US citizenship. US citizens with foreign-born parents, adult children, or siblings would lose the ability to sponsor those relatives for permanent residence.

Why does it matter?

Asylum seekers who traveled through another country without first seeking protection there would be barred from applying. Broad presidential immigration relief programs, such as deferred action policies, would require Congressional approval under this bill.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $20,000 bond required from sponsors
• Criminal charges for visa overstays
• Sponsors must earn 2x poverty level

Where does it stand?