Labor Market Changes & Employment-Based Immigration

Structure of Labor Immigration to the United States

First of all, it should be noted that labor immigration falls into several categories:

1. Work visas of a temporary nature, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, and others.
2. Permanent immigration (green cards) based on a job offer.
3. Agricultural and seasonal worker programs (e.g., H-2A and H-2B).

Each of these programs has its own unique requirements and legal nuances. KAASS LAW regularly advises employers and employees on how to comply with these regulations and paperwork.

Economic growth is usually accompanied by an increase in the number of job openings. In such an environment, employers face difficulties in hiring qualified workers, especially in areas such as

1. IT
2. Engineering
3. healthcare
4. scientific research

As a result, the demand for foreign workers is increasing. Companies are becoming more active in sponsoring H-1B visas and green cards. For example, from 2015 to 2019, the number of H-1B visa applications exceeded the 85,000 limit each year. As a result, a lottery had to be held to select applicants. However, this changes during economic downturns. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to a spike in unemployment. The authorities temporarily restricted the issuance of a number of work visas in order to preserve jobs for Americans.

In recent years, the U.S. labor market has sent mixed signals.

– On the one hand, there is a shortage of skilled workers in certain industries.
– On the other hand, automation, telecommuting, and technological change are reducing the need for certain occupations.

This has implications for immigration policy. For example:

1. H-1B visas are becoming more competitive.
2. Requirements for employers to demonstrate the need to hire a foreign professional are becoming more stringent.
3. The role of industry analysis and employment status reports is increasing.

KAASS LAW attorneys help clients adapt to these conditions.

Businesses in the U.S. face a number of significant challenges. Changes in laws and regulations require constant review to avoid errors and penalties. In addition, the government frequently updates forms and filing requirements. For example:

1. Mandatory proof of payment of fair market wages.
2. Documentation of worker qualifications.
3. Proof that there are no available U.S. candidates.

In such a situation, it is especially important to work with professionals who understand not only immigration law, but also the specific industry. The professionals at KAASS LAW assist companies in complying with all applicable regulations.

For foreigners seeking to work in the United States, changes in the labor market are also critical. Changes in demand for certain occupations can open or close access to visa programs.
For example:

1. Programmers and data analysts continue to be in demand.
2. Some humanities fields may lose support.
3. New opportunities are emerging in renewable energy and medicine.

However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain a work visa. This is especially true for newcomers who have no previous experience in the United States. Seeking legal advice is therefore an important step in the immigration process.

Political and economic factors continue to influence immigration policy. Here’s what we can expect in the coming years:

1. Tighter work visa requirements.
2. Increased requirements for proof of skills.
3. Expanded priorities for STEM majors.
4. Changes in quotas and lottery rules.

As a result, the key to successful immigration is timely planning, proper legal support, and an understanding of current regulations. Changes in the labor market inevitably affect employment-based immigration. Successfully obtaining a visa requires not only meeting qualifications, but also a clear understanding of legal procedures and economic realities.

Contact KAASS LAW to provide yourself or your business with confidence and legal support.