What Really Happens After Layoffs in USA? The Startling Truth
The 45,000+ tech layoffs last week have exposed a glaring issue in the USA immigration system. The system is broken and needs fixing. Many immigrants who have been laid off now face a race against time to secure a new job within 60 days or face the possibility of being deported along with their families.
When you get laid off as an immigrant in the US, you face several challenges that make the situation even more difficult. Here are the hurdles that you need to overcome
The 60-Day Challenge
- You have 60 days to secure a new job in the same occupation or you get deported.
- The new company must be willing to sponsor you. You cannot pay yourself.
- The new job must pay a minimum of six figures. You cannot take a lower-paying position.
The Difficulties During the 60-Day Period
While you are searching for a new job, you face several restrictions
- You cannot use social services that you have paid into.
- All medical costs are out of pocket.
- You lose your healthcare coverage.
- You cannot start your own business.
- You cannot work for a non-profit.
- You cannot work part-time.
- You cannot work gigs.
The Consequences of Not Securing a New Job
The consequences of not securing a new job within 60 days are dire
For Sale
- You face deportation for your entire family.
- You may have to sell your house and property if you cannot secure a new visa.
- You lose your place in line for permanent residency (green card).
As if a layoff wasn’t hard enough, the challenges faced by immigrants make the situation even more difficult. However, despite these challenges, immigrants are known for their resilience. They will work twice as hard to overcome their difficulties.
A Call to Action
Please take a visa-holding immigrant into account if you’re hiring. Your support can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Additionally, if you have the voice, please ask for change in the immigration system. The existing system has to be fixed because it is flawed.
Conclusion
The 45,000+ tech layoffs last week have exposed the broken immigration system in the US. Immigrants face several challenges when they are laid off, including a 60-day deadline to secure a new job or face deportation along with their families. The consequences of not securing a new job within 60 days are severe, including the possibility of losing your home and healthcare coverage. However, despite these challenges, immigrants are resilient and will work twice as hard to overcome their difficulties. We urge hiring managers to consider hiring immigrants on visas, and for everyone to raise their voices and ask for a change in the immigration system.