Trump wants a merit-based immigration system -- but what does that mean?

Amid calls to crack down on illegal immigration, President Donald Trump has indicated support for adopting a new system for immigration in this country -- known as a merit-based system.

Trump touted the approach in his address to Congress this week, heralding that the approach, used by Canada, Australia, among other countries, is based on "a basic principle that those seeking to enter a country ought to be able to support themselves financially."

He also bragged that the system "will save countless dollars, raise workers' wages, and help struggling families — including immigrant families — enter the middle class."

But adopting such a system would have significant impacts on which people can become Americans.

As the New York Times explained, the Canadian system awards potential immigrants points the help them gain access. A strong employment background or education means more points, as does language proficiency. High scores put a candidate at the front of the line.

Currently, the U.S. has a system that awards family connections, which means having a relative who is an American or legal resident increases your chances.

The U.S. currently gives 63 percent of green cards based on family ties and 13 percent based on economic backgrounds. The reverse is true in Canada, where 63 percent receive permanent residency based on economics and 24 percent on family.

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The U.S. had a more merit-based system until the 1950s when families began to be a primary driver.

Some lawmakers support Trump's approach, believing it would bring high-skilled workers capable of achieving financial stability. But critics have said that it would reduce the number of low-skilled workers the country relies on.