In the News: Justin Coffey Quoted in HR Executive on Rising Visa Wage Requirements and Talent Strategy Challenges

HR Executive quoted Constangy partner Justin Coffey in an article examining how proposed increases to visa wage requirements under the Trump administration are complicating employers’ talent strategies. The piece highlights a U.S. Department of Labor proposal to significantly raise prevailing wages for foreign workers in programs such as H-1B, with increases that could reach more than 20%–30% depending on role and experience level.

The article explains that these changes are intended to align foreign worker pay more closely with U.S. market wages and discourage employers from relying on lower-cost international talent. However, the higher wage thresholds—combined with other policy shifts like increased visa fees—are expected to increase labor costs and force organizations to rethink workforce planning, including where and how they source talent.

Justin notes that these evolving immigration policies are adding complexity for employers, particularly those that depend on global talent pipelines, and may require more strategic, long-term planning to remain competitive in a constrained labor market. The article underscores that employers may need to explore alternative hiring models, including domestic workforce development and international remote staffing, as regulatory uncertainty continues.

To read the full article on HR Executive's website, click here.

Justin is a partner in Constangy’s Raleigh office and co-chair of the firm’s Immigration Practice Group. He advises employers across a wide range of industries on U.S. immigration law, including developing visa strategies, managing global talent, and navigating complex compliance requirements such as I-9 and E-Verify. With more than 15 years of experience, Coffey works closely with organizations to align their immigration programs with business and workforce needs.