New York and Chicago are actively exploring ways to streamline the process for migrants to obtain work visas due to a growing influx of migrants seeking assistance in these cities. According to reports, only 2% of migrants in New York City have applied for work permits, and it remains uncertain how many of these applications have been approved.
The mayors of both cities have called upon the federal government for support, requesting additional financial aid and expedited visa processing to enable migrants to quickly secure employment and become self-reliant. Delays in obtaining work visas can be attributed to a backlog of cases at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the requirement for asylum-seeking migrants to wait 150 days after applying for asylum before being eligible to apply for a work visa. Further complications can arise from errors or issues during the asylum application process. The mayors’ aim is to make it easier for migrants to acquire work visas, facilitating their transition to self-sufficiency and contributing positively to the cities.