Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2024

Degree Type

Capstone - Open Access

Instructor/Advisor

Dr. Melissa Nemon & Dr. Audrey Falk

Abstract

The United States (US) has been grappling with the issue of immigration for decades. Using mixed research methods, this capstone analyzes the current US immigration policies around work visas in the US, focusing on the challenges faced by employers who wish to sponsor foreign workers. The analysis found that the process of sponsoring a visa worker can take an average of 8.6 months and cost between $7,000 to 15,000, which can be a significant barrier for many employers. Gaps in acceptance of credentialing contribute to the barrier for employers to engage highly skilled foreign workers fully. Additionally, the study found that immigrants contribute significantly to the increase in the US GDP. These findings suggest that there is a need for immigration work visa reform to reduce the burden on employers and create a more streamlined, fair process for immigrant workers to contribute to the US workforce. The capstone recommends practical solutions for achieving this goal. By implementing these recommendations, the US can further tap into a diverse pool of talent and improve its capacity for economic growth while offering immigrants a path to economic prosperity.

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