Trends in Business Immigration Law Every Employer Should Know in 2025
Does your business depend on foreign talent? New immigration rules may limit your ability to hire internationally. Policy updates can also affect the legal status of foreign workers who are already in the US, creating operational disruptions and financial losses. On top of that, non-compliance risks fines and lawsuits, which can lead to reputational damage.
Below are the most important trends you as an employer should monitor in 2025 to avoid legal problems down the road.
More thorough vetting with social media checks
Most non-immigrant visa applicants are now required by the US Department of State to provide social media identifiers used over the past five years on form DS-160. Applicants who __ some details or provide incomplete information may face processing delays, or worse, outright rejection in some cases. This is part of the government’s ‘extreme vetting’ program — a policy that aims to improve security screening. Many employers are now working with business immigration lawyers to ensure that their foreign hires understand this requirement.
Extended wait times
In some countries, applicants for routine B-1/B-2 visitor visas are waiting more than 250 days. And for many employment-based applicants in STEM fields, extra administrative reviews stretch the process even longer.
Slower processing due to staffing challenges
Internal reorganizations and reported staffing reductions at some US embassies and consulates are adding to the delays. There’s limited appointment availability for work visas such as H-1B, L-1, and O-1 in high-demand countries like India and China because there are fewer visa officers available to process applications. Budget restrictions tied to the 2025 federal allocation are also limiting overtime hours and slowing the hiring of new consular staff, which directly extends visa processing times.
How employers can stay ahead
HR teams and employers should start the visa process well in advance and prepare candidates with clear guidance on documentation, including truthful disclosure of social media activity. Partnering closely with a business immigration lawyer is also critical to reduce risks and improve the chances of successful outcomes.
Get reliable legal support for your business.
Berd & Klauss, PLLC provides experienced business immigration lawyers who can help your organization hire and retain global talent. Their team has extensive knowledge of complex immigration issues and offers tailored guidance for employers.
Call 212-461-7152 today to schedule your initial consultation with a business immigration lawyer in New York.
About the Author:
Patrick Klauss, Esq., is an immigration attorney and partner at Berd & Klauss, PLLC, who specializes in all aspects of immigration law, from visas to deportation and waivers. Berd & Klauss, PLLC is a boutique, full-service immigration firm in New York dedicated to helping companies and individuals secure immigration benefits in the United States.