[US tariffs announced, impact on immigrants]
The "reciprocal tariff" policy announced by the United States on April 2, 2025, with a core of "10% base tariff across the board + higher tariffs on specific countries", has had a wide-ranging impact on the global economy and international relations.
Although tariffs are primarily targeted at trade, their economic and social ripple effects may indirectly affect immigration policy.
-
1. Labor market pressure
Labor shortages in construction and manufacturing: The U.S. real estate industry relies on foreign immigrant workers. If immigration restrictions (such as crackdowns on illegal immigration) and rising costs caused by tariffs are combined, labor shortages could be exacerbated, pushing up wages and weighing down housing construction.
Industrial repatriation and employment demand: Trump claims that tariffs will be used to promote the repatriation of manufacturing, but if companies are unable to expand local production due to cost pressures, they may ask the government to relax restrictions on skilled immigration to fill job vacancies.

2. Economic pressure and populist policies are linked
Voter sentiment drives policy: If tariffs push up inflation (such as higher food prices), they could reinforce public discontent with the economy and prompt governments to protect local jobs by restricting immigration.
Anti-immigration: The Trump administration has linked tariffs to border security, which may further instrumentalize immigration policy, such as strengthening border controls under the pretext of "combating drug smuggling."

3. Obstacles to international cooperation
Immigration agreement negotiations are hindered: If countries such as Canada and Mexico reduce cooperation with the United States due to tariff disputes, it may affect cross-border labor agreements or refugee resettlement programs.
Restricted talent flow: The technology industry relies on global talent. If the trade war leads to visa restrictions or reduced academic exchanges, it may affect high-tech immigration.

Friendly suggestions
It is predicted that there may be major changes in immigration policies in the next 1-2 years, and we should seize the current opportunity! Avoid missing out on your best opportunities.