Throughout his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump focused mainly on undocumented workers, and not on employment-based immigration. He has offered only a vaguely drafted policy statement regarding his proposed changes to U.S. immigration law, so only time will tell how his policies will eventually take shape. However, his statements suggest that it may become more difficult and costly to pursue permanent residence and temporary work authorization for foreign nationals. For example, he has suggested additional restrictions to the issuance of H-1B visas and green cards.
Our Immigration Practice Group will track these policies as they develop, and provide further updates. At this time, in light of the uncertainty around these policies, employers may wish to prioritize permanent residence for key foreign national employees. Permanent residence would make their U.S. status far more secure.
Please check back frequently for updates and information posted on our Immigration Practice Group website. If you have any questions regarding this LEGALcurrents®, please do not hesitate to contact any member of our team at (585) 232-6500.