Most economists agree that when businesses are able to employ people while also making a profit through their endeavors, it helps the economy’s road to recovery. This is why many California employers believe it is important for the U.S. to update its immigration policy in order to make it easier for them to hire an immigrant worker with a work visa. Industries ranging from agriculture to computer technology have benefited through the availability of immigrant workers.
Workers with high levels of education and skills from foreign countries have played a significant role in technology startup firms such as Google and Facebook. The co-founder of America Online has cited immigration as one of the most important contributing aspects to innovation and entrepreneurship in the U.S. Low-wage immigrant workers in the agricultural industry and those working in food service and hospitality are also important for those industries.
Employers are enthusiastic about the proposed national plan to overhaul the immigration system. One of the aspects many employers are in favor of is a possible pathway to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants. Also, more immigrants who possess skills and knowledge that are in high demand will be able to more easily obtain employment visas.
California employers as well as those looking to obtain a work visa or citizenship may want to keep a close eye on what lawmakers ultimately decide to do regarding immigration policy. The changes may result in significant adjustments in the process for obtaining a work visa or citizenship. Also, an understanding of how to interpret these new laws may also be vital.
Source: Los Angeles Times, “Some California employers eagerly await immigration reform bill,” Shan Li and Diana Marcum, April 17, 2013