High-Skill Work Visa Restrictions Expected

Restrictions on immigration have been increasing in the United States for decades. In particular, they have ramped up during the Trump administration. And even more, in particular, they have ramped up during the COVID-19 crisis.

Trump’s words often do not match his actions. When it comes to his immigration policy, this is no different. During his campaign and throughout his many rallies, he promoted the notion of legal immigration.

Now, however, such promotion is clearly questionable.

Along with the already existing trend of limiting immigration as a result of COVID-19 –both legal and illegal– the Trump administration is reportedly gearing up to heavily restrict the visas of high-skilled immigrants. New H1B visas will potentially be blocked and L-1 visas will be as well.

Likewise, those who are in other countries who hold these visas will be heavily restricted from entering into the United States.

“Preventing businesses from transferring their highly talented workers into the U.S., even temporarily, will limit their ability to do critical scientific research, build new product lines, generate economic growth and create new jobs,” said Jon Baselice, executive director for immigration policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in an interview.

In essence, as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, the reaction of the Trump administration is all encompassing restriction on immigration. Not just in the movement of individuals in and out of the country, but also upon individuals who have already gone through the strenuous process of obtaining visas.

The result of this? High-skilled workers being incapable of doing their life’s work. Foreign businesses losing interest in doing business in the United States. All and all a losing situation for all involved.

These restrictions have not been put into place yet. We will keep you posted on the status of these restrictions, and how that might affect you.

If you have any questions or need any assistance, please email us at info@gehilaw.com or call us at 718-263-5999.

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