Some countries use a merit-based visa system where individuals must demonstrate their value before entering the country. The United States is currently debating whether or not to implement a merit-based visa program. Such a program would consider the applicant’s age, education, English language proficiency, skills, achievements, and other qualifications, then use that information to determine whether or not the applicant should enter the United States.
Merit-based visas are also called points-based systems. Canada, for example, uses a points-based system. Skilled workers from in-demand trades are given higher priority under the Canadian Federal Skilled Workers Program. The United States may implement a similar merit-based or points-based system in the future.
