Why Have Amazon and Google Suspended Green Card Applications?
In a surprising turn of events within the technology sector, tech giants Amazon and Google have both announced the suspension of green card applications for immigrants in the United States for the year 2024. This decision is closely tied to the recent broad layoffs across the industry, including significant cuts at Microsoft.
What Triggered the Suspension of Visa Applications?
The driving force behind this unprecedented step taken by Amazon and Google is primarily the shrinking job opportunities resulting from layoffs, notably Google’s dismissal of 12,000 employees and Microsoft significantly reducing its workforce. This sequence of layoffs correlates strongly with the decision to pause the U.S. permanent residency (green card) applications, indicating an effort to recalibrate their workforce strategy amidst economic pressures.
With fewer positions available and increased availability of local workforce talent, tech companies find themselves reassessing their need for foreign workforce solutions. Ava Benach, a founding partner at Benach Collopy, a reputed immigration law firm, explains, “With more U.S. workers available for open positions, the labor market test fails, and so the process becomes a waste of time and money for these tech companies.”
How Does the Suspension Affect Green Card Applicants in the Tech Industry?
For hopeful green card applicants, this move could mean a tougher road ahead, particularly in securing positions within major tech firms in the U.S. The PERM process, which is the first step in applying for a green card through employment, requires employers to certify that there are no suitable American workers to fill a specific job before they hire a foreign worker.
Moreover, if a company like Google or Amazon has recently laid off workers, they are obligated to notify these individuals of new job openings that could potentially be filled by them instead of a new foreign worker. Ava Benach shed light on this, stating, “If tech companies have done layoffs relatively recently, they also have to notify laid off workers of new positions that may be going to foreign workers. If some of these people say ‘yes, I’m interested,’ then you’re out of luck with the green card application.”
What Should Current Visa Holders and Applicants Expect Next?
Both Amazon and Google have clarified their stance, with an internal announcement revealing that no new PERM filings will be entertained through 2024. Google particularly stated that the PERM process would not resume until the first quarter of 2025. This could indicate a long waiting period for those who were aiming to secure a green card soon.
What Steps Can Affected Individuals Take?
For many foreign nationals working in or aiming to join these tech giants, this news brings uncertainty. Affected individuals should consider seeking legal advice or consulting with immigration experts to explore other possible avenues or solutions that might be available. Keeping abreast of any policy changes or updates from these companies can also provide a clearer picture moving forward.
For detailed information on the PERM application process, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s official page.
Final Thoughts
The decision by Amazon and Google to suspend green card applications as a part of reacting to industry-wide layoffs highlights a growing trend among tech companies to prioritize domestic workforce efforts. It is a reminder of the ever-changing nature of immigration policies and employment practices in the U.S. tech industry, necessitating ongoing vigilance and adaptability among workers and applicants.
Learn Today:
Glossary
- Green Card: Informally known as a Permanent Resident Card, a green card is an immigration document that allows a foreign national to live and work permanently in the United States.
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Visa: A visa is a permit granted by a country that allows a foreign national to enter, stay, or leave its territory for a specified period and purpose. There are various types of visas, including work visas, student visas, and tourist visas.
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PERM Process: The Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) process is a crucial step in applying for a green card through employment. It requires employers to demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for a specific job before hiring a foreign worker.
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Foreign Worker: A foreign worker is an individual who works in a country other than their home country under a temporary or permanent work visa or permit.
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Immigration Law Firm: An immigration law firm is a legal practice specializing in providing services related to immigration law, assisting individuals and organizations with visa applications, green card petitions, deportation defense, and other immigration matters.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Amazon and Google have halted green card applications due to recent tech layoffs. This move affects foreign workers seeking permanent residency. Companies prioritize U.S. workforce. Seek legal advice if affected. Stay updated on policy changes. Adapting to evolving immigration rules is crucial in the tech job market.
— By VisaVerge.com
