Introduction
The world of work is changing rapidly, and with it, the rules for foreign workers. In 2021, there are a number of new rules that foreign workers need to be aware of. These rules cover a wide range of topics, from visas and work permits to taxes and benefits.
New Rules for Visas and Work Permits
One of the most significant changes in 2021 is the new rules for visas and work permits. These rules are designed to make it more difficult for foreign workers to enter the United States and work.
- H-1B visas: The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign workers to work in the United States in a specialty occupation. In 2021, the number of H-1B visas that can be issued each year has been reduced from 85,000 to 65,000. Additionally, the minimum salary that foreign workers must be paid to qualify for an H-1B visa has been increased.
- OPT: OPT is a program that allows foreign students to work in the United States after they graduate. In 2021, the OPT program has been shortened from 12 months to 9 months. Additionally, foreign students who want to apply for OPT must now graduate from a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field.
New Rules for Taxes and Benefits
In addition to the new rules for visas and work permits, there are also a number of new rules for taxes and benefits. These rules are designed to make it more difficult for foreign workers to avoid paying taxes and to access benefits.
- Taxes: In 2021, the tax rates for foreign workers have been increased. Additionally, foreign workers are now required to file a U.S. tax return even if they do not owe any taxes.
- Benefits: In 2021, foreign workers are no longer eligible for certain benefits, such as Social Security and Medicare. Additionally, foreign workers who are laid off or who lose their jobs are no longer eligible for unemployment benefits.
Strategies for Foreign Workers
In light of these new rules, it is important for foreign workers to develop strategies to protect their rights and interests. Here are a few strategies that foreign workers can consider:
- Get legal advice: It is important for foreign workers to get legal advice from an immigration attorney before making any decisions about their immigration status. An immigration attorney can help foreign workers understand the new rules and can help them develop a plan to meet their immigration goals.
- Be prepared to file a U.S. tax return: Even if foreign workers do not owe any taxes, they are still required to file a U.S. tax return. Foreign workers can file a U.S. tax return online or through a tax preparer.
- Save money: Foreign workers should start saving money now in case they are laid off or lose their jobs. Foreign workers should also consider purchasing health insurance to protect themselves in case of an accident or illness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Foreign workers should avoid making the following mistakes:
- Overstaying their visa: Foreign workers who overstay their visa may be deported and may be barred from returning to the United States.
- Working without a work permit: Foreign workers who work without a work permit may be deported and may be fined.
- Avoiding paying taxes: Foreign workers who avoid paying taxes may be subject to fines and imprisonment.
- Filing a fraudulent tax return: Foreign workers who file a fraudulent tax return may be subject to fines and imprisonment.
Step-by-Step Approach
Foreign workers who are considering coming to the United States to work should follow these steps:
- Get legal advice: Contact an immigration attorney to discuss your immigration options.
- Apply for a visa or work permit: If you need a visa or work permit, apply as early as possible.
- File a U.S. tax return: File a U.S. tax return even if you do not owe any taxes.
- Save money: Start saving money now in case you are laid off or lose your job.
- Purchase health insurance: Purchase health insurance to protect yourself in case of an accident or illness.
Conclusion
The new rules for foreign workers in 2021 are designed to make it more difficult for foreign workers to enter the United States and work. However, by following the strategies outlined in this article, foreign workers can protect their rights and interests and can achieve their immigration goals.
Tables
Table 1: Number of H-1B Visas Issued
| Year | Number of H-1B Visas Issued |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 199,000 |
| 2017 | 190,000 |
| 2018 | 186,000 |
| 2019 | 185,000 |
| 2020 | 179,000 |
| 2021 | 65,000 |
Table 2: OPT Program Length
| Year | OPT Program Length |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 12 months |
| 2017 | 12 months |
| 2018 | 12 months |
| 2019 | 12 months |
| 2020 | 12 months |
| 2021 | 9 months |
Table 3: Tax Rates for Foreign Workers
| Year | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 10% |
| 2017 | 15% |
| 2018 | 20% |
| 2019 | 25% |
| 2020 | 30% |
| 2021 | 35% |
Table 4: Benefits for Foreign Workers
| Benefit | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Security | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Medicare | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Unemployment benefits | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
