Questions Arise Over Melania Trump’s ‘Einstein Visa’
Recent claims have stirred controversy over Melania Trump’s visa status. Many people question her eligibility for the so-called “Einstein visa.” But what exactly is this visa, and why is it causing such a stir?
Melania Trump’s Background and Citizenship
Before marrying Donald Trump, Melania Knauss was a Slovenian model. She received the visa in 2001. In July 2006, she became a U.S. citizen—months after the couple welcomed their son Barron.
What Is an ‘Einstein Visa’?
The Washington Post investigated and revealed that Melania’s citizenship came through a visa reserved for immigrants with “extraordinary ability.” This visa is usually granted to people with national or international acclaim, such as Pulitzer Prize winners, Olympic athletes, or Academy Award recipients.
In 2001, only about 3,300 green cards—around 1% of all—were given to those with extraordinary ability.
Social Media Reacts: Is Melania Eligible?
Following the investigation, social media users have questioned if Melania meets the high standard required.
One X user wrote, “Melania Trump qualified for a visa that’s typically for individuals with extraordinary ability while Trump targets student visas at Harvard.” Another claimed, “Melania did not qualify for the Einstein visa, but she got one.”
Political Backdrop: Deportation Focus
This controversy emerges as Donald Trump pushes for the “largest deportation program of criminals in American history.” Some critics highlight a contrast between the First Lady’s visa status and her husband’s strict immigration policies.
Congressional Questions
At a recent congressional hearing on visa integrity, Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett challenged Melania’s visa eligibility.
In a viral video, Crockett said, “Melania, the First Lady, a model—not on the level of Tyra Banks or Cindy Crawford—applied for and was given an EB1 visa. It doesn’t take an Einstein to see that the math ain’t mathin’ here.”
Expert Insight: How Is the Visa Granted?
Susan McFadden, a U.S. visa lawyer in London, explained to the BBC that Nobel Prizes are not required to obtain the extraordinary ability visa.
She said, “I’ve gotten EB-1 visas for people you’ve never heard of and never will.” McFadden added that a lawyer’s skill in presenting a client’s achievements plays a crucial role. Testimonials from respected figures in the field also strengthen applications.
Melania Trump’s Lawyer Responds
Michael Wildes, Melania’s attorney, defended her eligibility. He stated, “Mrs. Trump was more than amply qualified and solidly eligible.”
However, he declined to disclose details, citing the importance of her privacy.
The debate over Melania Trump’s “Einstein visa” highlights ongoing tensions about immigration and visa policies under the Trump administration. While critics question her eligibility, legal experts emphasize the nuances involved in visa approval.
