Tips for Employers to Prepare for H-1B Visa Program Changes
There has been plenty of debate over the H-1B visa program and what changes may be on their way in 2025 with the incoming Trump administration. There is no doubt that President Trump has spoken clearly and frequently about issues related to immigration in the United States. So, it can be reasonable to expect a serious overhaul of U.S. immigration policies. It is not just undocumented immigrants that will experience significant adjustments; the H-1B visa program is also likely to be much different than it stands now.
Businesses planning on having foreign workers come to the country to work under an H-1B visa may wonder how upcoming changes will affect operations and if the new administration’s policies will force a re-examination of such plans. It is not uncommon for U.S. immigration laws to change, especially when there is a shift in politics within the country. As a result, businesses may have to pivot and strategize to continue to meet their goals as the political winds blow.
The Atlanta employment-based immigration attorneys at Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc.
understand that it can be difficult and very frustrating to navigate the immigration system in the United States. This is never more true than when there is a switch in presidential administrations and political parties. An attorney can help prospective foreign workers determine the most effective way to come to the country and advise employers on what can be done amid a much stricter landscape for hiring foreign workers.
Tips for U.S. Businesses Wanting Foreign Workers
In the first Trump administration, it became much more complicated and difficult for foreigners to obtain H-1B visas and extend them. Policies and regulations were introduced that had a significant impact on immigration reform across the board, including the H-1B visa program. As a result, U.S. employers and foreign workers faced considerable challenges working together.
The Department of Homeland Security is anticipated to be much more aggressive under the new Trump administration than it has been under the current one. Employers can proactively prepare for this by considering the following tips:
- Do not wait to file applications, extensions, or green card petitions before deadlines approach.
- Expedite eligible H-1B petitions before the changes in immigration rules are enacted.
- Determine how to transition Optional Practical Training (OPT) employees to obtain long-term visas.
- Ensure that your I-9 and E-Verify records are compliant through an internal audit and that all job postings with compensation are updated with the revised requirements.
- Check the budget, as compensation requirements are likely to be raised. Also, filing fees are likely to increase as well.
- Explore other employment-based visa options for employees who are unable to obtain an H-1B visa.
- H-1B workers and families that are affected by changes to new rules can be offered legal resources and assistance.
Speak with an Atlanta Immigration Attorney Today
Since it is very likely that changes to the H-1B program are imminent, business owners can benefit from early preparation.
For a consultation to discuss your immigration needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. at 404-523-3611. One of our Atlanta, GA, immigration lawyers is here for you and ready to help.
Source:
dol.gov/agencies/whd/immigration/h1b
