The United States has introduced tougher rules for immigration work permits as part of its expanding crackdown on undocumented workers and employers.
Officials say the revised guidelines will make it harder for applicants to obtain or renew work authorization without extensive background verification.
The new policy aims to reduce what authorities describe as “systemic abuse” of immigration loopholes used to access the labour market illegally.
US agencies have begun increasing workplace inspections and warning employers against hiring individuals without fully verified documents.
Government sources report that the updated rules will also tighten eligibility for asylum-seekers applying for work permits before their cases conclude.
The administration believes the move will decrease fraudulent filings that contribute to lengthy backlogs in immigration courts nationwide.
Advocacy groups, however, argue the stricter measures could leave thousands of legitimate applicants unable to support themselves financially.
They warn the crackdown risks pushing vulnerable migrants into exploitative jobs due to long waiting periods and reduced legal options.
Analysts say the tougher work permit rules reflect a broader federal strategy focused on enforcement rather than expanding immigration pathways.
The shift follows a series of actions, including increased border deployments and expedited removal processes for unauthorized entrants.
Immigration experts predict the new restrictions will have significant economic impacts, especially in sectors heavily dependent on migrant labour.
Employers across agriculture, construction, and service industries fear potential shortages as legal hiring becomes increasingly difficult under the new system.
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