The Announcement
On August 21, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a moratorium on all employment visas for commercial truck drivers. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) confirmed that the suspension applies to three visa categories:
- H-2B: Temporary visa for non-agricultural workers
- E-2: Temporary visa for investors making a substantial U.S. business investment
- EB-3: Employment-based Green Card for skilled workers
No changes have been announced for other visa classifications.
Why the Policy Was Issued
The moratorium follows a high-profile incident in which a truck driver—allegedly in the U.S. without authorization—caused a fatal traffic accident. While only a small number of individuals are directly impacted by the visa moratorium, the policy is yet another indication of the Administration’s increased scrutiny of employment based immigration programs.
- The H-2B is the most common visa type for truck drivers. Roughly 1,500 H-2B visas for truck drivers are issued annually, out of a total of 66,000 visas for the H-2B category.
- Reliable figures for E-2 and EB-3 visa holders operating trucks are not readily available.
- Importantly, the federal moratorium does not affect states’ ability to issue Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) to noncitizens who are already present.
Implications for Employers
Hiring & Workforce Planning
Employers who sponsor truck drivers in the US and abroad—whether for temporary visas or employment-based Green Cards—should anticipate hiring delays and administrative challenges as DOS enforces this new policy.
Broader People Operations Considerations
HR and People Operations leaders should:
- Evaluate any potential workforce gaps that may result from halted visa issuance.
- Review internal immigration policies to ensure compliance with shifting policies and regulations.
Next Steps for HR & People Operations Leaders
This policy change highlights the Administration’s continued focus on employment-based immigration programs as well as the importance of proactive corporate immigration compliance strategies. Employers may wish to partner closely with legal advisors to:
- Review current immigration status and available visa options for sponsored employees;
- Anticipate continued lengthy backlogs in visa processing; and
- Adapt immigration strategies to account for rapidly shifting policies and regulations.
How Meltzer Hellrung Can Help
Our team advises HR and People Operations leaders navigating complex corporate immigration challenges. If your company sponsors commercial drivers or other employees impacted by shifting U.S. visa policies, please contact your Meltzer Hellrung professional to discuss how best to adapt your policies to this constantly changing immigration landscape.
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