U.S. Visa Scrutiny Intensifies – Cross-border Workforce Planning Now a Priority

Heightened Scrutiny at U.S. Consulates

Over the past three months, companies across China, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia have reported increased visa scrutiny when sending personnel to the U.S. for business activities. This includes:

• Higher rejection rates for B1/B2 applicants in logistics and trading roles

• More L-1A/L-1B cases entering prolonged “administrative processing”

• Greater demand for detailed employment contracts and overseas payroll records

Top Issues Triggering Rejection

• Job duties unclear / overgeneralized

• Salary not aligned with U.S. market expectation

• Applicant lacks long-term employment proof

Implications for Project Timelines

For companies planning U.S. plant setups, equipment installs, or sales channel expansion, delays in visa approvals could push timelines back by weeks or months. This adds financial pressure and strains customer expectations.

We recommend a three-tiered solution for clients:

• Establish U.S. legal entities to support L visa issuance

• Hire and train local project managers

• Prepare a compliance-ready HR package for cross-border staff