As we continue to prepare for the possibility of escalated federal immigration enforcement, we want to make sure you have the tools you need to support any members who may be here on work visas and are concerned about their safety, immigration status, or ability to remain in the country.
Why this matters:
Healthcare workers on work visas, including RNs, NPs, and other licensed professionals, play a critical role in staffing hospitals and clinics across Oregon. Many are here legally under H-1B, TN, or other employment-based visa categories. However, these workers remain vulnerable to federal immigration crackdowns and Trump administration promises to engage in mass deportations.
Key concerns for healthcare workers on work visas:
- Sudden changes to visa status could result in immediate job loss and forced departure.
- Targeted enforcement or workplace raids could create fear and trauma, even among those with lawful status.
- Visa sponsorship ties workers to their employers, making it difficult to speak out against unsafe or unfair conditions without risking deportation.
- Retaliation from employers, including threats to withdraw visa sponsorship, may increase in high-conflict labor situations.
Resources for you and your members: If you’re working with any members who express concerns about their visa status, please share these resources and help connect them with trusted legal support:
We’ll continue to monitor this situation closely and will provide updated guidance as new developments arise.
