Recently, Trump ordered a temporary stay on the issuance of several work visas. The stay is in place through December 30 and applies to H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, H-2B visas for seasonal workers, L-1 visas for executives at large corporations, and J-1 visas for scholars and professors. Most employees affected by the H-1B visa freeze work in the technology industry. The freeze also means that spouses of H-1B visa holders cannot obtain H-4 visas.
One immigration policy analyst opined that the temporary ban on immigration for foreign executives will negatively impact the economy. Immigration rights advocates have accused Trump of trying to appeal to his political base, targeting immigrants for racist reasons. Those who support the decision say that Trump is being true to his word of trying to create more jobs for Americans.
Trump has indicated that he has plans to make longer-term changes to the H-1B visa process as well. Specifically, he wants these visas to go to applicants with the highest income rather than being assigned by lottery.
It is hard to keep up with the country’s changing immigration policies, which affect not only would-be immigrants but also immigrants who have lived in the United States for several years, including students currently enrolled in college. People who have questions about their immigration status or who want to know if they can still get a visa or citizenship may want to consult with an employment immigration law attorney.