As companies ramp up H-1B planning for 2025, the ADP Research Institute’s latest report signals heightened urgency. October saw a surprising increase of 233,000 private-sector jobs, reflecting strong hiring demand that could intensify competition in next year’s visa season. With USCIS processing times rising from 2.7 to 3.5 months, employers are under pressure to refine their immigration strategies ahead of the FY2026 H-1B registration period.
“These numbers are a wake-up call for talent acquisition teams,” says Hendrik Pretorius, Director of Immigration Strategy and Partnerships at Law and Visas. “Despite hurdles like hurricanes, strikes, and supply chain challenges, employers are still hiring aggressively, underscoring the need for a strong international hiring strategy.”
Partner with Law and Visas to stay ahead of policy shifts and secure a resilient talent strategy. Book a demo to learn more.
Job Growth Breakdown
Healthcare
Urban medical centers are actively hiring, but rural hospitals face significant staffing gaps. October’s healthcare hiring boost (+53,000) underscores the urgent need for focused recruitment in underserved areas.
Technology
Professional services added 31,000 jobs, centered in tech hubs like Seattle and Boston. However, finding specialized skills remains a challenge, particularly in:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
Construction
Despite hurricanes impacting the Southeast, construction added 37,000 jobs in October. The industry, however, struggles to find qualified tradespeople, from plumbers to electricians and carpenters. “We are constantly looking for skilled workers,” says Jake Snyder, director of preconstruction at Hoar Construction.
Strategic Planning for Visa Processing
For HR leaders tracking these trends, planning is essential as the FY2026 H-1B cap season aligns with a new U.S. administration.
Key Dates:
- January 2025: New administration takes office
- March 2025: Expected H-1B registration window
- April 2025: Visa filing period for selected registrations
- October 2025: FY2026 H-1B employment start date
“Don’t wait,” advises Pretorius. “Companies should document their needs now, reinforce immigration programs, and prepare for varied scenarios.”
Law and Visas can help you expedite international hiring and navigate complex immigration processes. Schedule a demo today.
Immediate Challenges for Employers
The October job surge also comes with immediate challenges, as visa processing times increase. USCIS data indicates H-1B processing times now average 3.5 months at most service centers, up from 2.7 months earlier this year.
Historical data suggests election years might reduce processing times. In 2016, times dropped from 5.1 to 3.4 months, while in 2020, times fell from 2.3 to 1.8 months. However, current delays reflect high demand rather than election-related changes.
Industry Trends:
- Healthcare organizations are accelerating visa applications to avoid potential election impacts.
- Tech companies are adjusting hiring timelines due to current processing delays.
- Universities are prioritizing faculty and researcher visas to avoid disruptions for international recruits.
These shifts are reshaping H-1B planning for 2025, as employers move quickly to adapt.
Global Talent Competition Intensifies
While U.S. employers are actively hiring, other countries are making it easier to attract international talent:
- The U.K. launched the Scale-up Visa for high-growth business employees.
- Canada introduced a Tech Talent Strategy with streamlined tech worker processing.
- Germany debuted its Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), a points-based system for skilled workers.
- Ireland expanded the Critical Skills Employment Permit to include more healthcare, engineering, and tech roles.
The U.S., however, lags in immigration innovation. Although USCIS raised H-1B cap exemptions for advanced degree holders from 20,000 to 35,000, there’s a clear need for more visa options to keep pace with global competitors.
Policy Scenarios Post-Election
The election outcome could greatly affect immigration:
- Pro-Immigration Policies: This could mean more visa availability, streamlined processing, and expanded pathways for healthcare and STEM professionals.
- Restrictive Policies: This could lead to heightened application scrutiny, additional compliance requirements, and restricted visa availability.
Key Takeaway: Employers should act within the current framework while it remains stable, as waiting for reform could mean losing talent to faster-moving global markets.
Strategic Steps for Q1 2025
HR leaders are taking proactive measures to prepare:
- Document Everything: Track unfilled positions by skill set and record recruitment outcomes.
- Strengthen Immigration Infrastructure: Audit visa processes, update compliance systems, and train hiring managers on visa options.
- Build Comprehensive Immigration Programs: Create clear policies to support employees, establish multi-visa strategies, and develop adaptable compliance frameworks.
October’s hiring surge revealed a critical truth: U.S. employers need talent, no matter the economic or political environment. Companies that strengthen their international hiring strategies and prioritize H-1B planning for 2025 will be better positioned to thrive, even amid potential changes.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
