Review of the 2015 U.S. Immigration Reform Plan

    Beginning in 2015, the United States announced the implementation of immigration reform, with former President Barack Obama announcing three plans as follows:

    1. Strengthening border security;

    2. Encouraging highly educated individuals and proactive entrepreneurs to remain in the United States;

    3. More lenient and tolerant treatment of illegal immigrants, with the possibility of remaining in the United States; however, those with serious criminal records will still be deported.

    Now let us summarize the impact of this U.S. immigration reform on individuals with immigration needs.

    1. For international students, the extension of OPT means that their legal stay is guaranteed. They no longer need to worry about being tied to an undesirable company or job due to H1B, allowing them to frequently change to more preferred and suitable jobs.

    2. The potential reduction in H1B waiting times means that your spouse can also have legal work opportunities, allowing them to earn a legitimate income and reduce living pressure.

    3. The application for investment immigration originally had waiting times of several years, but after the reform, the waiting times for investment immigration applications will be significantly reduced.

    4. Many individuals who went to the United States to give birth and overstayed their visas will, due to the reform in immigration policy, not only avoid deportation in the short term but also be able to obtain work permits and earn a regular income, which is undoubtedly very good news for many.

    5. For those who are starting businesses in the United States and have achieved certain accomplishments in the high-tech field, the immigration conditions in the United States will be relatively easier for them to obtain national interest waivers and other benefits compared to before.

    This reform is very beneficial for both Chinese individuals who are staying in the United States and applicants seeking to immigrate to the United States. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of individuals considering immigration, and the United States, with its excellent education quality and favorable environment, has a strong attraction for many who wish to immigrate. This immigration reform also demonstrates the United States' desire for outstanding talent.