America’s immigration crossroads: H-1B crackdown, big tech layoffs, and career challenges for immigrant workers

In 2025, immigrants in the United States, especially those on H-1B visas, face one of the most challenging periods in recent history. A convergence of policy shifts, large-scale tech layoffs, shrinking healthcare access, and rising anti-immigrant rhetoric has created unprecedented uncertainty. For the country’s highly skilled workforce, the consequences extend beyond legal status, affecting career trajectories, financial security, and overall well-being.

H-1B crackdown: Career pathways narrowing

Earlier this year, the Trump administration imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications, effectively pricing out smaller employers and many highly skilled professionals. While renewals and transfers are exempt, policymakers are advocating stricter requirements, including prioritising US-educated STEM graduates and eliminating exemptions for universities and research institutions.This crackdown is more than a financial barrier. It reflects a deeper political shift, a bipartisan hardening against skilled migration. Congressional Republicans have spearheaded policies to drastically lower immigrant admissions, targeting both legal and undocumented populations for deportation. The result boils down to a projected voluntary exit of 30,000 immigrants, with another 290,000 expected to be forcibly removed over five years, shaking the foundations of hundreds of families and industries, as reported by Politico.For employees, these developments mean fewer job options, limited mobility between companies, and heightened uncertainty over long-term career growth. Many skilled professionals now face the difficult choice of staying in the US under restrictive conditions or seeking opportunities abroad.

Big tech layoffs: Navigating an oversaturated job market

Mass layoffs in the technology sector have compounded H-1B uncertainties. In 2024 alone, over 238,000 employees were laid off across 1,115 rounds, with H-1B holders facing unique pressures: the 60-day window to secure new employment before losing visa status creates an urgent career crunch, according to Reuters.While executive orders aim to protect American workers, H-1B employees often bear the brunt of workforce restructuring. Many report struggling to find new roles as both US and foreign-born workers compete in a shrinking market. Vendors such as Wipro and Tech Mahindra, which supply tech talent from India, have also been directly affected, adding another layer of uncertainty for employees employed through these firms.

Career strategies for H-1B professionals

Navigating 2025’s uncertainty requires a proactive approach. Immigrant employees must focus on upskilling, strategic networking, and exploring both domestic and international opportunities to protect their careers and future prospects.

Healthcare battles: The workplace-health connection

Concurrent with employment upheaval, access to healthcare for immigrants has been deeply eroded. A 2025 tax and budget law stripped more than 1.4 million lawfully present immigrants, including H-1B holders, from federal health coverage programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and the ACA Marketplace. For many, this means confronting serious illness and chronic conditions without insurance or access to affordable care: a reality compounded by fears that seeking treatment could endanger immigration status or trigger deportation, according to a KFF.org report.The practical effect on employees is significant. Many feel “locked” into roles solely for insurance access, limiting their ability to switch jobs, negotiate salaries, or pursue entrepreneurship. Healthcare insecurity amplifies financial and psychological stress, threatening both career stability and personal well-being.

Career resilience in a hostile environment

For immigrant professionals, 2025 is a critical year for career planning. Staying informed about visa regulations, deadlines, and exemptions is essential. Diversifying skill sets and building robust professional networks can help maintain employability, while considering international opportunities provides an escape hatch from an increasingly restrictive US environment.Germany, Canada, Australia, and Singapore among other countries offer skilled migration opportunities, while remote or multinational roles allow career growth without US visa constraints.Mental health support is equally important: navigating visa deadlines, job market uncertainty, and healthcare insecurity can take a heavy toll. Counselling, peer support groups, and professional mentorship can help employees stay productive and make informed career decisions.With strategic planning, upskilling, and exploring these global alternatives, immigrant professionals can navigate 2025’s turbulence while safeguarding long-term career growth, financial security, and personal well-being.