The immigration sector during the health crisis

Since the arrival of the global Coronavirus pandemic, the Trump administration has focused on protecting the jobs of the American population, avoiding competition between local citizens and foreign workers, reducing the unemployment rate, and safeguarding resources.

Therefore, one of the sectors most affected during the current juncture is the immigration sector. It is important to clarify that the US’ immigration system is quite broad and offers multiple options for study, residence, tourism, work, inter alia.

Many of the emergency measures implemented by the current administration of the US during the health crisis severely restrict immigration processes. Although, it is imperative to know that many restrictions are no longer in force, and immigration processes are gradually returning to normal.

For more information about recent changes in the immigration sector or if you want to keep up to date with immigration news, visit our Blog section. Adding to that, if you have any questions regarding your immigration process, contact Motion Law’s team and follow experts’ advice.

The Trump administration restrictions on international students

To give a specific example about changes proposed by the Trump administration during the massive outbreak of COVID-19 in the North American territory, we can mention the student sector.

In July 2020, in an effort to reopen several sectors, the Trump administration stated that international students had to attend face-to-face classes during the fall, at least a portion. Otherwise, they could face deportation proceedings.

Since this proposal could jeopardize the health of international students, teachers, and staff at local universities and colleges, the Trump administration received countless criticism and decided to revoke this order just 8 days after making it public.

Other than that, in late September, the Trump administration, through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), stated that foreign students from 59 countries will no longer be able to reside in the US with indefinite permits, but their student visas will have a fixed term of 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

In this way, the current administration aims to prevent foreigners from staying in the country after completing their studies. This premise was recently refuted and contradicted by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), which conducted a study revealing that DHS will use faulty and inaccurate information from an outdated database.

What could be the implications for the education sector and international students?

When foreign students decide to come to the US, they usually have to invest a large amount of money to gain access to the local educational system. Therefore, their investment represents a benefit for universities and colleges, which can improve their educational level and facilities thanks to foreigners.

Adding to that, according to a recent report by the Massachusetts Daily Collegian, American citizens pay less to study due to percentages paid by foreign students. It means that restricting the education sector could be detrimental even for the local population.

It is also important to mention that multiple recognized universities declare that foreign students not only invest economically, but also bring talent, entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and other qualities that contribute to the socioeconomic development of the US.

Do you need help with an immigration case?

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.