Tough stance on illegal immigration impacts legal immigration

During the most recent election, most Americans in Florida and elsewhere understand the now President’s stance on immigration. Talks about the wall and being hard or illegal immigration has caused some concerns for immigrants currently in the U.S. as well as those seeking to enter the United States as tourists or for business.

According to recent reports, the Trump administration’s strong approach on their immigration agenda has been noticeable when it comes to attacking illegal immigration in the country. The number of arrests of undocumented aliens has increased and travel from majority-Muslim countries to the U.S. has been almost completely barred. Unfortunately, their strong stance on illegal immigration has impacted legal immigration as well.

Although no wall has been built, walls have been made. Those seeking visa are more closely scrutinized, causing many to be denied by those seeking to enter the U.S. for business or to work for companies that have recruited them. Additionally, those already residing in the United States legally whose employers are seeking to extend their stay are now facing new hurdles.

The President’s immigration plan is to cut the number of people entering the United States as temporary workers or permanent residents each year. The administration has many philosophies, one of them being “Buy American, Hire American,” which significantly impacts the countries ability to hire foreign workers and even do business with foreign companies.

Every year, 85,000 H-1B visas are available. Even if an immigrant is lucky to obtain one through a drawing, he or she is now faced with more scrutiny. This means that the application process is more detailed and requires more information. This could cause some applicants to be in the process much longer or even be denied because of the new strict process in place.

Those seeking to enter the U.S. for employment should take the time to understand their situation. This means exploring your legal options and how you can protect your rights throughout the process.

Source: Nytimes.com, “Without New Laws or Walls, Trump Presses the Brake on Legal Immigration,” Miriam Jordan, Dec. 20, 2017