Business execs push for relaxed laws around work visas for tech employees
A survey out of Duke University found almost 90 percent of chief financial officers support merit based immigration policy.
April 03, 2013
Business execs push for relaxed laws around work visas for tech employeesA recent survey conducted with Duke University found almost 90 percent of chief financial officers are in support of an immigration system based on merit. Such a system would allow immigrants to enter the country based on the expertise they can bring, as opposed to the current lottery based system.
These executives are concerned that if this step is not taken, the alternative will result in a "train then drain" scenario. In this scenario, workers are trained in the United States only to leave because they are unable to find employment due to current immigration policies.
About the survey
The survey is conducted quarterly and polls a wide range of companies. Both public and private companies are included with over 500 from the U.S., 256 from Asia, 177 from Europe and 204 from Latin America. The companies represent retail, agriculture, transportation, technology and finance industries.
One suggestion from these companies: make it easier for tech workers to obtain H1B work visas. This type of visa is temporary and allows the worker to remain in the United States as long as he or she is employed with the company that agrees to provide sponsorship.
Immigration laws and work visas in the U.S.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS, allows thousands of immigrants to work within the U.S. every year. USCIS provides work visas to workers within a variety of fields, including artists, scientists, religious workers and agricultural workers.
A worker who enters the U.S. is provided admission on either a temporary or permanent basis. Temporary workers are allowed to enter for a specific purpose for a short period of time while a permanent worker is authorized to live and work permanently within the U.S.
Temporary workers include nurses, agricultural workers, athletes, entertainers and scientists. A specific visa is used for each occupation and each occupation has a list of general requirements that must be met.
Tech workers generally qualify as temporary workers and apply for an H1B visa. In order to receive this visa, an employer must submit various forms to both the Department of Labor and the USCIS. If approved, the worker would than apply to the US Department of State or a U.S. embassy or consulate for the visa.
If the worker receives the visa, he or she is allowed to work within the U.S. for up to three years. Although extensions are allowed, the USCIS generally caps the total stay at six years.
There are many requirements that must be met in order to receive a visa. Those who apply can reduce the risk of unnecessary rejections or delays in processing by contacting an experienced immigration attorney to help properly prepare the necessary paperwork.
Article provided by Schunk Law Firm P.C.
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