Important Updates
Important Updates
September 4, 2025 | OmanOman: New Licensing Requirement for Select Roles 
September 5, 2025 | SingaporeFragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan Named 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs Winners
September 5, 2025 | United StatesPartner Archana Iyer Wins "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards
September 5, 2025 | United StatesTimes of India: A War on Fraud: USCIS to Train Special Armed Agents with Powers to Arrest Applicants and Lawyers
September 5, 2025 | United StatesUnited States: DHS Announces End of Temporary Protected Status for 2021 Venezuela Designation
September 4, 2025 | OmanOman: New Licensing Requirement for Select Roles 
September 5, 2025 | SingaporeFragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan Named 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs Winners
September 5, 2025 | United StatesPartner Archana Iyer Wins "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards
September 5, 2025 | United StatesTimes of India: A War on Fraud: USCIS to Train Special Armed Agents with Powers to Arrest Applicants and Lawyers
September 5, 2025 | United StatesUnited States: DHS Announces End of Temporary Protected Status for 2021 Venezuela Designation
September 4, 2025 | OmanOman: New Licensing Requirement for Select Roles 
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationTravel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle EastImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapHumanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)Vietnamese ImmigrationView More
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Travel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Humanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • View More

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
  • Insights

H-1B Talent: A Driving Force Behind the Automotive Industry

January 30, 2025

H-1B Talent: A Driving Force Behind the Automotive Industry

Country / Territory

  • United StatesUnited States

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

By: Megan Blanford

The new presidential administration is expected to bring dramatic change to the automotive manufacturing landscape.

H-1B employees will remain a critical resource as their innovative ideas and unique expertise in fields related to automotive design and manufacturing will drive the industry forward through rapid national changes. 

What is the H-1B Visa?

The H-1B is one of the most widely used non-immigrant employment-based visas in the United States. Established in 1990, the program allows U.S. companies to temporarily sponsor individuals in specialty occupation positions.

To qualify for the H-1B category, the foreign employee must have at least a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) in a specific specialty and the position must require specialized knowledge. H-1B status is typically available for a total of six years, subject to various regulatory factors.

Each year, the Department of Homeland Security can award up to 85,000 new H-1B visas. However, the demand for these visas far exceeds the 85,000 visas available each year, resulting in a lottery system in which new H-1B applicants are selected each March. 

Critical talent across industries

Foreign employees with specialized education and experience are integral to nearly every industry in the U.S. H-1B workers are often found in engineering, nursing, research, tech and countless other sectors, both in hubs like Silicon Valley and in underserved regions that may have fewer skilled workers readily available.

These employees drive innovation in their fields and contribute to advancements in areas like drug development, aerospace, marketing strategies and more.  H-1B workers are especially used to fill talent gaps in the rapidly developing technology and engineering sectors due to the U.S.’ low output of STEM graduates.

For example, H-1B employes have become prevalent in the Artificial Intelligence boom where they bring advanced education and unique expertise to the battle for global competitiveness. As discussed below, H-1B employees are also prevalent in the automotive industry and are key driving components of the continuing automotive technical revolution. 

Looking ahead: H-1B workers and their contribution to the automotive sector

Rapid development in technology and national agendas are driving a transformation in the automotive industry. U.S. policies centered on favoring U.S. manufacturers and expected tariffs on raw materials, vehicle parts and imported vehicles are anticipated to create a dramatic shift in the technology and manufacturing processes across the domestic automotive industry.

It is anticipated that the U.S. automotive industry will begin to pivot away from Electric Vehicles (EVs) and more towards hybrid engines and a return to internal combustion. Automotive development is also experiencing profound advancements in areas like smart manufacturing and autonomous vehicles. Furthermore, the U.S. is facing increasing competition from international automotive developers, especially in China and Europe. 

The significant changes in the automotive market will ultimately lead to a new design cycle in automotive manufacturing where companies will re-evaluate project portfolios in pursuit of new designs and new components to remain competitive. Manufacturing efficiency and lean manufacturing is going to become necessary to keep costs low and production output expeditious and voluminous. 

Skilled employees are the backbone of innovation. The expected revolution in the automotive industry will rely heavily on employees with unique expertise in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, fuel systems and more.

H-1B employees bring their advanced education and knowledge with them to their U.S. employers, where they support initiatives in advancing technologies and manufacturing techniques. Product Engineers design and test new vehicle components. Software Engineers are undertaking the push towards the development of autonomous vehicle technology. Mechanical Engineers develop new engine systems and address the safety and performance of automobiles.

These are all occupations, amongst many others, where H-1B employees fill significant gaps in talent and employment. These advancements often rely on the specialized skills and expertise that H-1B employees bring to the U.S. workforce. The H-1B visa program enables employers to access a global talent pool, contributing to innovation and progress across various industries, including the automotive sector.

Need to know more?

For questions about H-1B visas or navigating the U.S. immigration system as it relates to the automotive industry, reach out to Partner Christian Dallman at [email protected] and Associate Megan Blanford at [email protected].

This blog was published on January 30, 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

Country / Territory

  • United StatesUnited States

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Porthole headshot image of Fragomen [Troy][Partner][ChristianDallman]

Christian Dallman

Partner

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 282 5753

generic_porthole

Megan Blanford

Associate

Detroit, MI, United States

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 248 649 5404

Related offices

  • Detroit, MI

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Awards

Fragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan Named 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs Winners

Fragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan were recognized at the 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs.

Learn more

Awards

Partner Archana Iyer Wins "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards

Partner Archana Iyer won the "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards.

Learn more

Media mentions

Times of India: A War on Fraud: USCIS to Train Special Armed Agents with Powers to Arrest Applicants and Lawyers

Senior Counsel Mitch Wexler discusses how USCIS’s new rule could potentially increase enforcement and affect how applicants interact with the US immigration system.

Learn more

Blog post

Red Carpet or Red Tape? Indonesia’s Immigration Strategy After the Election

Assistant Business Immigration Manager Raga Rasuanta discusses Indonesia’s post-election immigration strategy and its shift toward balancing openness to global talent with increased regulatory scrutiny.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年8月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Fragomen news

Fragomen Center for Strategy and Applied Insights Names Leah Rogal Senior Director

Fragomen announces the appointment of Leah Rogal as Senior Director of its Center for Strategy and Applied Insights.

Learn more

Blog post

Moving to Saudi Arabia: How Orientation Programs Help Expats Adjust

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar discusses how orientation programmes in Saudi Arabia help expatriates adapt to cultural differences, workplace norms and everyday challenges, easing their transition into a new environment.

Learn more

Blog post

Exploring Self-Sponsored Visa Pathways in the UAE

Manager Olga Astapova outlines options for individuals to obtain residency without employer sponsorship, highlighting legal routes and strategic considerations.

Learn more

Video

Ireland 2025 Submission Period Opens for Consultation on Occupation Lists | #MobilityMinute

Senior Manager Fatima Aydin discusses Ireland's 2025 public consultation on the occupations lists, and how stakeholders such as employers can provide input.

Learn more

Blog post

Swiss Immigration Quotas 2025: Mid-Year Update

Manager Mihaela Dumitru outlines Switzerland's evolving immigration policies and quota adjustments for 2025.

Learn more

Video

German Citizenship by Descent Explained

Learn how to apply for German citizenship by descent. Discover eligibility under Article 116 and Section 15, benefits of EU citizenship and the step-by-step application process.

Learn more

Media mentions

Personnel Today: Immigration: Huge Fall in Health and Care Worker Visas

Partner Siobhan Owers discussed how visa reforms are reducing available international staff and creating workforce challenges in the UK care sector.

Learn more

Awards

Fragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan Named 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs Winners

Fragomen and Regional Partner for the Asia Pacific Mark Buchanan were recognized at the 2025 FEM APAC EMMAs.

Learn more

Awards

Partner Archana Iyer Wins "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards

Partner Archana Iyer won the "Innovation Award" at The New York Law Journal's 2025 New York Legal Awards.

Learn more

Media mentions

Times of India: A War on Fraud: USCIS to Train Special Armed Agents with Powers to Arrest Applicants and Lawyers

Senior Counsel Mitch Wexler discusses how USCIS’s new rule could potentially increase enforcement and affect how applicants interact with the US immigration system.

Learn more

Blog post

Red Carpet or Red Tape? Indonesia’s Immigration Strategy After the Election

Assistant Business Immigration Manager Raga Rasuanta discusses Indonesia’s post-election immigration strategy and its shift toward balancing openness to global talent with increased regulatory scrutiny.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年8月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Fragomen news

Fragomen Center for Strategy and Applied Insights Names Leah Rogal Senior Director

Fragomen announces the appointment of Leah Rogal as Senior Director of its Center for Strategy and Applied Insights.

Learn more

Blog post

Moving to Saudi Arabia: How Orientation Programs Help Expats Adjust

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar discusses how orientation programmes in Saudi Arabia help expatriates adapt to cultural differences, workplace norms and everyday challenges, easing their transition into a new environment.

Learn more

Blog post

Exploring Self-Sponsored Visa Pathways in the UAE

Manager Olga Astapova outlines options for individuals to obtain residency without employer sponsorship, highlighting legal routes and strategic considerations.

Learn more

Video

Ireland 2025 Submission Period Opens for Consultation on Occupation Lists | #MobilityMinute

Senior Manager Fatima Aydin discusses Ireland's 2025 public consultation on the occupations lists, and how stakeholders such as employers can provide input.

Learn more

Blog post

Swiss Immigration Quotas 2025: Mid-Year Update

Manager Mihaela Dumitru outlines Switzerland's evolving immigration policies and quota adjustments for 2025.

Learn more

Video

German Citizenship by Descent Explained

Learn how to apply for German citizenship by descent. Discover eligibility under Article 116 and Section 15, benefits of EU citizenship and the step-by-step application process.

Learn more

Media mentions

Personnel Today: Immigration: Huge Fall in Health and Care Worker Visas

Partner Siobhan Owers discussed how visa reforms are reducing available international staff and creating workforce challenges in the UK care sector.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.