Businesses brace for H-1B crackdown as Trump takes office

As Donald Trump returns to the White House, employers are preparing for increased immigration enforcement, including workplace raids and stricter compliance checks. Lawyers advise businesses to audit and correct I-9 forms, ensure H-1B visa documentation is robust, and prepare for potential impacts on workers under DACA and TPS programs. Jorge Lopez of law firm Littler Mendelson highlights rising concern among employers, recommending I-9 audits and E-Verify enrollment to avoid fines of up to $27,894 for hiring undocumented workers. Industries like construction and agriculture must address documentation gaps, says Robert Lee of Troutman Pepper. Stricter H-1B visa standards are anticipated, with a focus on highly specialized, high-paying roles. Lee urges employers to submit detailed evidence of job complexities and act swiftly on renewals. New policies could disadvantage entry-level positions and recent graduates. Workplace raids, though less frequent than audits, pose reputational risks. Publicized enforcement actions, even if employers are cleared, can harm a company’s image.