In 2015, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans for a Known Employer pilot program, which would hopefully create a secure, streamlined process for American businesses that wish to employ foreign nationals in certain employment-based classifications. The immigration lawyers at Berd & Klauss, PLLC in New York City report that the pilot program became active in March of 2016, with five national employers selected to participate.

According to these experienced immigration lawyers, the Known Employer program will allow businesses and organizations the opportunity to create a profile in the Known Employer Document Library (KEDL), complete with information about the company's structure and financial health, as well as an application for predetermination.

Under the current system, every visa application submitted by an employer must stand on its own merits, requiring an employer to submit the same documentation every time. The Known Employer pilot program is testing the long-term feasibility of allowing employers to submit these documents once, after which officers will defer to their pre-approved status.

Immigration lawyers across the country are watching this pilot program with interest. If it proves successful, DHS may implement it for companies in almost any industry, dramatically decreasing the time, frustration, and cost of submitting employment visa applications. Over time, similar programs for other visa situations may help make the entire system more efficient and easier to navigate.

Berd & Klauss, PLLC's immigration lawyers pride themselves on providing their clients with advice based on the most recent changes to immigration law. To learn more about their range of legal services and history of success, visit their website or call (212) 461-7152 to schedule a consultation today.