The United States is facing an unprecedented immigration backlog, with over 1.8 million cases pending as of this year. This crisis isn’t just a bureaucratic inconvenience—it’s a roadblock to economic growth, national security, and the dreams of millions.

The Scope of the Problem

• Processing Delays: Immigration applications that once took months now take years. Some employment-based visas exceed five years in processing time, leaving businesses struggling to fill critical roles.
• Family Separation: Over 500,000 family-based immigration cases are caught in limbo, keeping loved ones apart indefinitely.
• Economic Costs: Skilled immigrants are often forced to leave for countries with faster systems, depriving the U.S. of talent that drives innovation and fills labor shortages.

What’s Causing the Backlog?

1. Legacy Systems: The lack of integrative technology to connect the needs of the applicants with the government.
2. Inefficient Processes: Paper-based systems and outdated workflows slow processing times drastically.
3. Staffing Strategy: There are 15 million undocumented or pending people in the United States. There are 80 field offices and only five major processing centers.

The Path Forward With the right strategy, this backlog can be addressed quickly and effectively. Two targeted executive orders could:

• Strategic Streamlined Processes: Mandate the adoption of digital systems and artificial intelligence to automate repetitive tasks. Enhance communication with the government.
• Incentivize Innovation: Partner with private sector experts to overhaul outdated workflows.

Why It Matters The immigration backlog isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. Every delayed application represents a family, a skilled worker, or a student waiting to contribute to America’s future. Fixing this issue means restoring trust in the system and securing America’s place as a global leader.

The time for action is now. With bold, tech-driven solutions, the U.S. can turn this crisis into an opportunity to strengthen its economy and its communities.