Last Week’s Highlights in Immigration: Travel Bans & Workforce Worries 🚨
- Milow LeBlanc
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Trump Eyes Sweeping Travel Ban on 43 Countries
The Trump administration is considering a new travel ban that would exceed past restrictions, impacting visas for students, professionals, and workers across 43 nations. The plan divides affected countries into three categories, ranging from full visa suspensions to probationary status. If enacted, this policy could severely disrupt workforce mobility, particularly in industries reliant on foreign talent.
The PERM Takeaway: Employers hiring foreign workers should stay updated on travel bans that may restrict visa approvals. A proactive immigration strategy is key to mitigating workforce disruptions.
ICE Crackdown: Immigration Arrests & Family Detention Resumes
Since returning to office, the Trump administration has ramped up immigration enforcement, arresting over 32,000 undocumented migrants, including those with pending charges. In addition, family detention centers in South Texas have reopened, signaling a return to controversial policies of past administrations. These moves could result in longer visa processing times and increased scrutiny for foreign employees.
The PERM Takeaway: With enforcement intensifying, employers should prepare for potential delays in PERM and visa processing, ensuring compliance and strong legal documentation for foreign hires.
Palestinian Activist Calls ICE Detention Political
Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and outspoken activist, claims his detention is politically motivated. His case highlights growing concerns over the potential targeting of individuals based on political beliefs, raising alarms for visa holders and permanent residents.
The PERM Takeaway: Increased scrutiny on foreign nationals means PERM applicants should ensure all documentation is in order and anticipate possible delays in processing times.
State Department Overhauls Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Rules
A new State Department policy removes the requirement for consular officers to honor past visa waiver decisions, adding uncertainty for applicants. Previously granted waivers no longer guarantee future approvals, making each application subject to fresh review. This shift underscores the importance of well-documented applications.
The PERM Takeaway: Visa unpredictability can impact workforce planning. Employers should advise foreign workers to prepare for heightened scrutiny and seek legal guidance to strengthen their cases.
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