To boost economies in the heartland regions of the U.S., the U.S. Conference of Mayors recently endorsed a new visa program called the Heartland Visa. Created with help from The Economic Innovation Group (EIG), this visa aims to attract skilled immigrants to areas hit hard by deindustrialization. Currently, skilled workers tend to benefit a few coastal cities. The Heartland Visa seeks to balance this by drawing skilled workers to the heartland. The program offers a new way for highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to become permanent residents in the U.S.
Heartland Visa Details
The goal of the visa is to bring skilled immigrant works to qualifying counties. To qualify, counties must show they are facing population decline or slow growth, excluding those with expensive housing markets. Visa holders must live in the qualifying area but can work anywhere. High earners with this visa may get a faster track to permanent residency. Visas will be given out based on regional needs every quarter, starting with a proposed initial period of three years, renewable for up to six years.
Under this program, both the community and the immigrants choose to participate, ensuring it meets everyone’s needs. Visas are given based on job offers or income, adjusted for local conditions and age, to ensure participants benefit economically. After living in a designated area for six years, visa holders may apply for permanent residence. The program aims to issue at least 100,000 visas each year.
Impact and Eligibility
Regions experiencing population decline or economic slowdown are the focus of participation. This can be measured through poverty rates and average income compared to more prosperous areas. By attracting skilled workers, the program hopes to reverse negative trends and boost economic growth in these counties. It aims to bring new life to counties in the heartland that are often overlooked by skilled immigrants. Having qualifying job availability that allows the individual to live in those counties will be the key to success.
If you have questions about an employment-based visa or any other U.S. immigration-related issue, please reach out to us. Our team of experienced attorneys works directly with our clients every step of the way throughout their immigration journeys.