US hotels increase background checks amid immigration scrutiny
Hotels across the United States report a significant increase in background check requests in the first half of 2025, driven primarily by increased scrutiny of migrant workers amid evolving immigration policies.
Between January and June, the background checks requested by hotel employment managers increased by 36% compared to the same period in 2024.
The surge in background checks coincides with stricter federal immigration enforcement and stricter regulations affecting migrant labor. Many hotels rely heavily on migrant workers, particularly for the role of housekeeping and foodservice.
Changes to Visa policy and job eligibility have led employers to adopt a more stringent screening process.
Human resources departments are now examining employee backgrounds more frequently to ensure legal compliance and mitigate risks associated with undocumented workers.
This trend follows a broader industry effort to protect the safety of guests and maintain operational standards amid the complex labor market.
The increase in background checks added layers of complexity and time to hotel recruitment procedures. Employers face challenges in balancing thorough reviews and timely employment.
Delays in onboarding due to extended validation can affect staffing levels, particularly during peak seasons.
Some hotel groups respond by investing in streamlined background checking technology and partnering with third-party screening companies. This helps to improve the efficiency of compliance checks while maintaining the required labor standards.
Despite these efforts, recruitment bottlenecks remain a concern in areas with large migrant labor forces.
The rise in background checks reflects wider pressure on the US hospitality industry related to labor shortages, regulatory compliance, and workforce stability.
As hotels strive to meet the growing demand for travel and accommodation, we ensure that a reliable, legally compliant workforce is becoming a priority.
Industry experts emphasize that the ongoing immigration debate and enforcement shift will continue to shape hospitality employment practices.
Hotels are also expected to focus on training and retention strategies to reduce turnover and dependence on temporary migrant labour.
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