The crisis brought by the global pandemic

The health emergency caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic suddenly arrived in the US, bringing not only a health crisis, but also an economic, social and political crisis.

In fact, during the massive outbreak of Coronavirus, the unemployment rate in the US surpassed the Great Recession (2007-2009), which represents the highest figure in the recent history of the country. This is mainly due to the fact that the economic flow decreased globally thanks to quarantines and preventive isolation.

Thus, to lower the unemployment rate, boost the economy, protect American workers, and safeguard essential resources, the Trump administration implemented multiple emergency measures and action plans that led to a decrease in immigration.

Immigration during the health crisis in the US

The Trump administration, apart from the health crisis, has always had the purpose of reducing immigration since, in its opinion, it can be extremely detrimental to the local economic system.

This premise has been refuted and contradicted by official figures from extensive studies, investigations and research, showing that immigration is truly positive for the American business economy and the local market.

However, because of his stance when it comes to the immigration sector, President Trump substantially restricted legal immigration during the sanitary emergency.

For instance, some of the sectors most affected by the ideals of the Trump administration on immigration during the current juncture are:

• Business immigration. Current restrictions include H-1B visas for highly skilled foreign workers and exclude visas related to the US food supply chain.
• Student immigration. The Trump administration has tried to restrict the entry and residence time for international students.
• Family immigration. The Trump administration’s travel ban included multiple processes of family-based immigration, such as visas for spouses of American citizens.

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Study shows that immigration is necessary to overcome the current crisis

In July 2020, the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) published a study called “Immigrants and America’s Comeback from the COVID-19 Crisis.”

The research results propose four conclusions and alternatives that could work for the US to overcome the current crisis:

1. Since immigration is essential for economic growth, the country’s administration should adopt immigration policies that help economic recovery after the massive outbreak of Coronavirus.
2. The government should expand alternatives so that foreign students can extend their residence permits and work in the country after completing their studies.
3. Immigration policies should offer more opportunities for nurses, physicians, doctors, researchers and health workers, as they are the front line in the battle against Coronavirus and the pioneers of our time.
4. The Trump administration should lift restrictions on business immigration and allow more highly skilled foreign workers to obtain H-1B visas.

The NFAP states that “For a full recovery from the social and economic impacts of the coronavirus, America should be open to the world rather than grow more isolated.”

The next administration could change the course of immigration

The American population elected Joe Biden as the next president of the US, who will take office in January 2021.

Joe Biden’s stance when it comes to immigration differs from the Trump administration’s view. Therefore, he plans to implement more welcoming policies for immigrants and foreign workers.

It is the right time to start an immigration process, always following the advice of experienced immigration attorneys, who can guide you towards the success of your application.

If you have any questions about an immigration issue or relating to a case you may have currently in progress, then please don’t hesitate to contact us for a FREE Phone Consultation with one of our expert immigration attorneys.

Simply call Motion Law today at: (202) 918-1799.