A new proposal in the United States could bring dramatic changes to the country’s employment-based immigration system, particularly affecting H-1B visa holders and workers going through the PERM (Permanent Labor Certification) process. If implemented, the changes could reshape job mobility, green card timelines, and employers’ ability to hire skilled foreign workers.
What the Proposal Entails
The proposed policy changes are aimed at tightening visa rules and strengthening enforcement within the U.S. immigration system. While full details are still evolving, the plan could modify key aspects of how employment-based visas are granted and renewed. This includes potential revisions to eligibility criteria, wage requirements, and documentation standards for both temporary work visas and permanent employment certification processes.
Advocates of the proposal argue that it will protect American workers by ensuring that employers prioritise domestic hiring and that foreign workers are paid prevailing wages. However, critics warn that the changes could create new hurdles for international talent already contributing to the U.S. economy.
Potential Impact on H-1B Workers
H-1B visa holders — who work in fields such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance — may face increased uncertainty and restrictions under the new rules. Some of the anticipated effects include:
- Stricter eligibility or documentation requirements that could make renewals and extensions more difficult
- Heightened scrutiny by immigration officers, leading to longer processing times and potential denials
- Reduced ability to change employers or handle transfers without extensive paperwork
For many H-1B professionals, these possibilities translate into a less predictable future in the U.S., raising concerns about job security and long-term career planning.
PERM Process and Green Card Delays
The PERM labour certification, a crucial step toward obtaining an employment-based green card, could also be affected. Proposed policy changes may require employers to meet additional criteria before sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residency. This could lead to:
- Longer waiting times for approvals
- Increased administrative burdens on employers
- More rigorous audits and checks
Such shifts could slow down the green card process for millions of foreign workers and their families, potentially keeping them in temporary visa status for extended periods.
Business and Economic Considerations
U.S. employers — especially in the tech and healthcare sectors — have long relied on international talent to fill skill gaps. Any restrictions could impact competitiveness, innovation, and project timelines. Companies may need to rethink hiring strategies and compliance efforts to adapt to a tighter immigration framework.
Conclusion
The proposed U.S. visa changes represent a shift toward increased regulation of employment-based immigration. While intended to protect domestic workers, they could inadvertently make it harder for H-1B visa holders and PERM applicants to succeed. International professionals, employers, and advocates will be closely watching how these proposals evolve, as the stakes for talent mobility and workforce planning remain high.
