Los Angeles Taiwanese American Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Business Department held a seminar titled “Immigration Classroom 101” at the Taiwan Center on October 26 (Saturday). Senior immigration lawyer Chen Qigeng, with years of experience, shared insights on various work visa application pathways for Taiwanese students and young overseas compatriots in the United States, and analyzed the current trends in the American job market.
Director Chen Minyong of the Los Angeles Overseas Chinese Center believes that this seminar was extremely practical for young people interested in developing their careers in the United States. Chen Qigeng provided clear information and advice, simplifying the complex procedures involved in immigrating to the United States and highlighting many important overlooked matters. Chen Minyong also expressed his hope that the young Taiwanese-American generation could smoothly develop in the U.S., obtain legal residency status, and become important bridges in bilateral relations, further promoting Taiwan-U.S. cooperation.
Chen Qigeng stated that in recent years, the number of Taiwanese who have successfully obtained work visas and green cards has significantly increased, showcasing the strong demand of American companies for foreign talents. Many students mistakenly believe that they can only rely on H-1B work visas, but the United States offers a variety of visa options. The number of Taiwanese who have successfully applied for E-2 investor visas in the past few years has surged.
Furthermore, Chen Qigeng introduced that the E-2 visa allows Taiwanese companies or individuals to establish businesses in the U.S. and develop their careers there. The process is relatively quick, not subject to lottery restrictions, and has become the fastest-growing visa category for Taiwanese applicants in recent years. It is estimated that the number of E-2 visas reached over 3,000 cases in 2023, with an expected increase to over 4,000 cases in 2024.
Chen Qigeng advised the public to understand immigration regulations and related application processes early to avoid difficulties during the transition period. For parents considering sending their children to study in the U.S., it is recommended to start the green card application process when the children are young so that they have legal residency status by the time they enter university. As for students planning to further their studies in the U.S., it is suggested to familiarize themselves early with regulations such as OPT and H-1B and utilize networking opportunities during their school years to better prepare for future career development.
President Li Dawei of the Taiwanese American Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Business Department encouraged Taiwanese students and Taiwanese Americans to actively participate in youth business activities to expand their networks and integrate into the Taiwanese-American community. He hopes that through youth business opportunities, Taiwanese students can gain a better understanding of the U.S. job market and encourage more young Taiwanese-Americans to join youth business activities, continuing to contribute to the community.
In response to international students’ concerns about obtaining work visas during the OPT period, Chen Qigeng suggested early career planning and active participation in activities organized by the Taiwanese American Chamber of Commerce and overseas Chinese community to increase contact with Taiwanese businesses or potential future employers. He believes that through networking connections provided by organizations such as the chamber of commerce, Taiwanese students can expand their networks and connect with employers willing to assist in obtaining legal work status.