KABUL (Pajhwok): The Trump administration has proposed scrapping the 60-day grace period that allows holders of certain US work visas to remain in the country and seek new employment after losing their jobs.
If approved, the proposal would require affected workers to leave the United States after their employment ends.
Reuters reported that the US Department of Homeland Security published the proposal in the Federal Register. Under current rules, holders of H-1B and certain other temporary work visas can stay in the US for up to 60 days after losing their jobs while seeking new employment.
The proposed change could affect major US technology companies that rely heavily on skilled foreign workers.
The Department of Homeland Security said affected companies could fill vacant positions with qualified American workers. In some cases, foreign workers who leave the US could apply to return if a new employer files a new petition on their behalf.
The 60-day grace period has been in place since 2017, giving foreign workers time to find new jobs or make personal and family arrangements after losing employment.
The proposal would apply to H-1B holders as well as holders of several other work visas, including E-1, E-2, L-1, O-1 and TN visas. H-1B1 visa holders from Singapore and Chile, and E-3 visa holders from Australia, would also be affected.
Reuters said the proposal is not yet final. It will remain open for public comment for two months before the government makes a final decision.
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