What Employers Need to Know About Immigration...Right Now!

Immigration policy is increasingly becoming a strategic concern for employers. WERC’s recent coverage of Fragomen’s Worldwide Immigration Trends Report 2025 offers a sobering yet actionable look at where immigration policy is headed, and what it means for companies who rely on global talent. 

While the global average of Fragomen’s Talent Mobility Index held steady at 42, this aggregate belies the divergence beneath the surface: over 40 countries have eased mobility access, but more than 50 have implemented new barriers. As the WERC article emphasizes, organizations must now navigate a patchwork of regulations, processing delays, and escalating compliance demands.

This aligns closely with insights we recently shared in our Mid-2025 Immigration and Workforce Trends post, where we noted a growing gap between progressive, talent-attracting policies and protectionist shifts aimed at domestic labor markets. The result is a more fragmented playing field for employers trying to move top talent across borders.

Crisis Planning Becomes Critical

In a recent article from BTN, there's a callout focusing on a sharp increase in emergency calls related to U.S. entry issues. Increased scrutiny at the U.S. border has led to increased anxiety and concerns for business travelers entering the country. That means an increased need for companies to provide information and resources to address those concerns. All of this is cuasing a dramatic increase in traveler anxiety and concern, much of which is warranted.

Fragomen's report urges employers to embed regional risk assessments into their workforce planning. Conflict zones—like Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan—pose threats not just to individual safety but to business continuity. Fragomen recommends proactive measures, including cross-functional working groups, embassy registrations, and documented exit strategies. These steps are no longer optional for companies who want to actually mantain a resilient global mobility strategy.

Red Tape and Opportunity

The article also outlines a paradox: even as many countries tighten procedures, they’re simultaneously introducing new pathways to attract specialized talent. For instance, Saudi Arabia is courting professionals with long-term, self-sponsored residencies, while Brazil is streamlining access for green sector investors.

Some governments are pivoting toward skills-based rather than degree-based assessments. This means new opportunities, especially when paired with refugee recruitment initiatives and digital visa platforms like those in Qatar and Singapore. Plus Relocation highlighted similar developments in our recent trends post, noting that employers are shifting toward a skills-first lens to stay competitive and inclusive.

Compliance in the AI Era

Immigration enforcement is also getting sharper, thanks to AI-enhanced compliance monitoring and rising penalties. Countries like the UK, Taiwan, and Luxembourg have significantly increased fines for infractions. Organizations must prioritize compliance protocols as much as recruitment strategies to mitigate risk.

Looking Ahead

With pivotal elections in the U.S. and Europe looming, employers should brace for further policy swings. While some changes may enable access to skilled foreign labor, others are likely to raise new hurdles. Staying informed is essential.

Join the Conversation

To help organizations stay ahead of these dynamic developments, Plus Relocation is hosting an exclusive webinar (The Immigration Landscape – Geopolitics, Compliance & the Road Ahead) on June 12. We’re thrilled to welcome two leading experts from Erickson Immigration Group (EIG), Rob Taylor and Lynn-Samantha Severe, who will unpack the latest immigration trends and explore how businesses can adapt effectively in today’s complex global mobility environment. Register now to gain expert insights and practical strategies that will help your organization stay agile in a rapidly changing talent landscape.