According to the International Monetary Fund, almost 40% of global employment will be impacted by artificial intelligence (AI). The field of immigration is no exception, with several countries already implementing or planning to integrate AI into their immigration systems. These advancements offer benefits such as increased productivity, enhanced security measures, and streamlined recruitment of foreign nationals.
Here, we discuss AI in immigration systems, ways for companies and governments to prepare for the AI revolution, and address specific challenges and concerns surrounding the use of AI in the immigration industry.
Recent Examples of AI in Immigration Systems:
As the use of artificial intelligence becomes increasingly common, more and more international governments are using AI models to assist with travel and immigration. Bear in mind that these are just a few examples. Even if you don't see your country – or a country you are traveling to – listed here, it doesn't mean there isn't an AI component involved in their travel process.
Ensure Compliance with Regional Standards:
Countries and regions around the globe are taking different approaches to regulating AI, and businesses must stay informed and adapt to these new rules. For example, the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act will regulate AI in phases, with the first phase banning prohibited AI systems that pose "unacceptable risks."
Per official documentation, examples of “unacceptable risks” include:
Businesses Should Adopt Specific AI Visas to Attract Talent
Despite the fact that the artificial intelligence industry is relatively new, many governments have already recognized the transformative nature of AI and the critical need to attract AI specialists to boost productivity.
The U.S., for example, is considering changes to the J-1 exchange visitor program and reviewing existing immigration pathways to attract AI talent. No matter what industry you're in, you should start considering hiring artificial intelligence experts in order to remain competitive. In an ironic twist, AI immigration systems may make it easier for companies like yours to hire the right AI talent from anywhere in the world.
Companies should include AI upskilling as part of regular assignments. According to the Harvard Business Review, the half-life of tech skills is less than five years, and in some fields, as low as two and a half years. Upskilling initiatives help retain institutional knowledge and improve employee loyalty.
Confidentiality of information is crucial, as AI systems must comply with data privacy laws and incorporate robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data. Governments must also ensure that AI platforms used in immigration are secure and that information is only shared with authorized partners to address national security issues – this is something that governments worldwide have been focused on since the rise of artificial intelligence tools.
AI translation tools can be unreliable due to language nuances, so careful selection of these technologies is essential to avoid errors in visa applications. Additionally, effective AI utilization requires a strong information and communication technology infrastructure, which may be lacking in developing countries, potentially leading to disparities and reshoring of jobs.
The integration of AI into immigration systems presents significant opportunities for businesses but, as with any new technology, it is not without its challenges. By staying informed and adapting to these changes, companies can streamline their recruitment processes, enhance security, and better navigate the complexities of global talent acquisition.