Trump Immigration Policies: What to Expect for U.S. Immigration After Trump Era 2

The Trump administration is likely to double down on its previous play in immigration enforcement during the first term, but this time with a more sophisti-cated approach designed to Withstand legal challenges. Here are some high impact areas where prospective immigrants face challenges:

1. H-1B Visa Challenges: Tougher Routes with a Merit-Based Orientation
The H-1B visa program, which is a significant source of high-skilled workers in IT and engineering, may face higher wage thresholds, increased scrutiny, and a tightening of eligibility. Conversely, Indians might have a potential upper hand in a merit-based system as described by Trump if they could present proof of high qualification and long years of experience.
Strategy:
Enhance skill and specialize in STEM
Work with employers for compliance on wages and documentation requirements

2. F-1 Visas and Student Opportunities: Restricted Yet Promising
Tighter control of F-1 visa applications may become tighter, especially for the non-STEM students. However, there is a silver lining for the STEM students as Trump considers offering Green Cards to U.S. graduates.
Strategy:
Major: Pursue STEM degrees to have excellent post-graduation placement potential.
OPT program update status.

3. H-4 Visa Work Authorization: Double or nothing, families in danger of losing both spouses’ income
Spouses on H-4 visas of H-1B holders may again face jobs turning unauthorized. Trump had attempted to end the employment authorization benefit for them earlier, and there is a likelihood of such attempts again.
Strategy :
Alternative work permits or part-time work
Prepare dual income households’ finances for probable disruption.

4. EB-5 Investor Visa: A Safe Route to Residency
For Indian investors, the EB-5 visa continues to remain an attractive option. It offers a way out of uncertainty surrounding work-based visas, with fewer restrictions and fast-track residence in the United States.
Strategy:
Invest in TEAs to bring down the capital requirement.
Keep in touch with experienced legal practitioners who could ensure compliance under EB-5 regulations.

5. Documentation Fever
Assume that every variety of visa will go under very high scrutiny and build up reams of documentation. Small mistakes can invalidate an application or delay it further.
Strategy:
Engage immigration attorneys to assist on documentation and compliance.
Verify all filing submissions in their entirety.

6. Travel Bans or Bans Based on Religious or Health Grounds
Orders restricting the traveling of select immigrant communities potentially because of health reasons may come back.
Strategy:
Monitor updates on travel restrictions, especially for the citizens of countries singled out by such restrictions
Alternative travel arrangements and relocation plans

7. DACA and Deportation Policies
Massive deportations and a possible cancellation of the DACA program create uncertainty among illegal immigrants.
Strategy:
Seek legal advice for potential alternatives in regularization of immigration status
Monitor updates on rulings that will shape DACA decisions

8. Strengthened U.S.-India Partnership
Regarding trade and technology partnerships with India, in particular, the President would work on revamping opportunities for Indians who may want to pursue professional practices in the IT sectors and Engineering circles.
Exploit the rising strategic relationship between India and the U.S. by targeting niches in hotly contested areas.
Build networks in technologies and trade industries for career advancement.