Migrants in the USA banned from working as truck drivers

For many years, truck driving was a lifeline for thousands of migrants in the U.S. Without the need to validate diplomas, offering stable income, and the freedom of life on the road, the profession provided a pathway to financial independence. But in 2025, everything changed. New regulations have effectively closed this field to foreigners without a visa or Green Card.

The U.S. Department of Transportation tightened the rules for obtaining and renewing Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL) for foreign nationals. From now on:

• A work permit (EAD) alone is no longer sufficient.
• CDLs and CLPs are only issued to foreigners holding H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 visas.
• If a visa expires, the CDL must be revoked.
• Renewals are only allowed through in-person visits to the DMV (no longer by mail or online).
• States are required to verify the immigration status of drivers and revoke licenses if they are not in compliance.

Experts estimate these changes will affect over 200,000 migrants who currently hold commercial driver’s licenses.

If you already have:

• A Green Card
• Granted asylum status

— these restrictions do not apply to you. However, if you have only applied for asylum or are still waiting for a decision, obtaining or renewing a CDL is no longer possible.

Truck driving used to be one of the most accessible and well-paid jobs for migrants. Earnings of $12,000–15,000 per month, no housing costs, and even the possibility to work as a team with a spouse made truck driving an ideal starting point for a new life in the U.S. Now, this opportunity remains only for those who secured the proper immigration status on time.

If you:

• Are only planning to move to the U.S.
• Are already in the country but lack legal status
• Are considering a work or business visa
• Have applied for asylum and don’t want to end up stuck without work rights

— you need an immigration strategy. It is no longer possible to rely on chance. The U.S. is now strictly regulating immigration and employment processes.

At Visa Dan, we understand how critical the right start is. That’s why we:

• Develop legal and effective visa strategies tailored to your profile
• Process work and investment visas with a high approval rate
• Assist with asylum, family reunification, and Green Card programs
• Offer our “Guaranteed Visa” service — officially, through employer partners
• Support clients from visa approval to permanent residency and citizenship

Migration to the U.S. is no longer about “arriving and starting work.” It’s about a well-thought-out strategy, long-term planning, and legal protection. Truck driving is now only for those with proper status. For everyone else, another path is needed.

Contact Visa Dan, and we will help you find the exact route that leads to a visa, a job, a Green Card — and peace of mind.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!