Kurzban Kurzban Tetzeli & Pratt | Attorneys At Law

What do you think about talent-based immigration?

On Behalf of | Oct 1, 2015 | Employment Immigration |

Immigration is a highly complex and sensitive issue for people all around the globe, and unfortunately, the immigration system in this country is similarly complex. Considering the diversity of immigrants as well as their needs and goals, it may not be surprising that over time, immigration laws and procedures in this country have expanded, changed and contracted considerably.

This has turned the current system into one that is enormously complicated and overburdened. Some argue that it is time to overhaul the system in favor of more simplistic approaches, but is that a realistic option?

One such suggestion is to shift our immigration policies to look more like those in other countries by adopting a talent-based system. The system works based on a point system that assigns points for different skills. For instance, a person with an advanced degree, proficiency in English and relevant work experience would receive more points than someone without these attributes.

In order to qualify for immigration, a candidate would have to have a certain amount of points and those with higher points are more highly prioritized.

Supporters of this approach argue that it would make our immigration policies clearer and more beneficial for all parties. The U.S. remains attractive to immigrants who in turn contribute to and improve the workforce in this country. Articles, like this one, go on to argue that a more simplified talent-based system would also ease the burden on the current system.

However, there are those who would argue against this program including people who come to the U.S. for reasons other than employment. Many immigrants come here to seek safety or to be with their family. Additionally, people come to the U.S. seeking a better life and job opportunities but do not have things like college degrees or extensive training.

If so much weight is placed on skills that translate well into the business world, other immigration candidates would get passed over if they do not earn enough points.

This is certainly an interesting recommendation that has obviously worked out well for other countries, but do you think it’s right for the U.S.? Do you think we should shift our immigration policies toward those that favor talent and skilled workers over all else?

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