Tech giants Amazon and Google have stopped accepting green card applications for immigrants in the US for the rest of 2024. This comes after both companies faced layoffs, making competition tougher for foreign workers.
Green card applications involve a process called PERM, overseen by the US Department of Labor. It ensures that hiring immigrants doesn’t harm opportunities for American workers. Amazon decided to pause PERM filings earlier this year until 2025, and Google did the same in 2023, with no plans to restart until 2025.
According to Ava Benach, an immigration law expert, tech companies are halting applications because there are plenty of US workers available for jobs. This makes it harder for foreign workers to get green cards.
The situation is tough for immigrants in the tech industry. With green card applications on hold, it’s harder for them to live and work in the US. This highlights the need for fair immigration policies and support for foreign workers in tech.