blogs / 20 Mar 2025

corporate housing & US immigration compliance in 2025

Preparing for a successful corporate relocation into and around the United States involves understanding the latest trends in supply chain management, securing temporary housing, navigating United States immigration laws, and ensuring a smooth settling-in process. This blog provides valuable insights into the current state of corporate housing, rental challenges in key cities, and essential compliance considerations. By staying informed and proactive, companies can ensure their employees’ transitions are seamless and efficient.

understanding US immigration: key insights and compliance

The United States immigration system is complex, with stringent regulations enforced by multiple government agencies. Employers must comply with strict verification requirements to avoid fines, and foreign nationals risk removal and visa issues if they overstay or work without authorization.

Current challenges include high Requests for Evidence (RFEs), especially for L-1B petitions, insufficient H-1B visa quotas, and multi-year backlogs for employment-based permanent residence applications. Careful planning and compliance are essential, and we recommend you consult with your own immigration provider to navigate the system successfully.

corporate and temporary housing

Corporate housing in the United States is readily available, offering multiple options for relocating employees. Despite the typical year-end quiet in Q4 last year, there are signs of increased travel and mobility needs for 2025 with many companies spending more on travel but opting for fewer trips and longer stays. This trend favors corporate housing over hotels for stays longer than five nights.

Internship programs

As we enter the intern recruiting season, it is crucial for clients with large intern populations, especially in key markets like New York City and Silicon Valley, to secure housing early. This ensures access to the best options and prices. Learn more about internship programs: maximizing internship success: strategies for attracting, retaining, and relocating top talent.

Things to consider when sourcing temporary housing in the US

  • Rental increases: Rates have slowed, with increased availability in most markets.
  • Vacancy rates: The national vacancy rate is above 7.5%, with stabilized pricing and more multi-family housing.
  • Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates: Increased demand for housing near corporate offices due to RTO mandates may drive up prices in these areas.

Staying informed about these trends is crucial for making strategic decisions in corporate housing. By planning ahead and understanding the evolving landscape, clients can secure the best housing options and manage costs effectively.

destination services and rental assistance

Housing in key cities

Finding rental accommodation in today’s competitive housing market can be challenging, particularly in:

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Beaverton, OR
  • Cincinnati, OH
  • Fort Worth, TX
  • Houston, TX
  • New York, NY
  • Peoria, IL
  • Redmond, WA
  • Round Rock, TX
  • San Diego, CA

Property availability can change rapidly due to high demand and turnover, making the market competitive for relocating employees trying to find a suitable property.

To help your employees find a property promptly, it is important to have the required documentation, references, proof of employment, and funds available. Flexibility with search criteria and prompt lease signing once a suitable home has been found are also important.

settling-in

Settling into a new location requires planning and preparation. Understanding local requirements will help ensure a smooth transition. Key considerations when relocating to a United States location include:

  • Social Security Number (SSN): In-person appointments are required within 45 days of submitting your online application.
  • Driver’s license: Rules and regulations can vary by state. Residency is required prior to application submission.
  • Education: Most cities have numerous high-performing school districts. The school finding process should start early with timely applications. Relocating families should be prepared for potential waiting lists for highly sought-after programs, international/bilingual schools, and private schools.

As you navigate the complexities of corporate housing and immigration in the United States, strategic planning and early action are paramount. By understanding market trends, complying with immigration regulations, and preparing for the settling-in process, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition for relocating employees.

Thank you to our supplier partners, Dwellworks, Fragomen, and LARM, for providing us with on-the-ground information on these topics.

Shannon O’Neill

about the author

Shannon joined Cartus in 1999 as a claim’s specialist in the household goods services team. After two years, she transitioned into a consultant role, where she spent the next five years counseling relocating employees. In 2006, Shannon moved into our global supply chain management team, initially responsible for the rental and furniture rental networks. Currently, Shannon oversees global temporary housing while continuing to manage the furniture rental network.    Throughout her career, Shannon has consistently identified opportunities and presented recommendations as a subject matter expert. Her proactive approach ensures that customer needs are promptly addressed, leading to innovative solutions and improvements that enhance the overall customer experience.