H-1B Visa
H1-B visa system is a 'scam', will change it, says US Commerce Secretary Lutnick
The US government plans to reform the H-1B visa and green card system. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calls the current H1-B visa system a scam. The Trump administration aims for wage-based immigration and merit-driven selection. The goal is to replace the lottery system with a selective model. Past attempts to change the system faced opposition.
Trump administration plans stricter reforms for H-1B visas, keeping cap-exempt category in focus
The Trump administration plans significant H-1B visa changes, tightening eligibility and oversight, particularly for third-party placements. Scheduled for December 2025, the proposal revises cap exemptions and introduces stricter compliance. A new rule prioritizes higher-wage applicants in the lottery, potentially impacting staffing firms and Indian professionals who are the largest beneficiaries of the H-1B program.
H-1B reforms may be next, says USCIS chief as White House readies announcement
The White House is considering changes to the H-1B visa program to protect American workers, according to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow. The administration is weighing a "Weighted Selection" rule and exploring broader reforms, potentially prioritizing higher wages. Simultaneously, the Department of Justice is investigating hiring practices that may favor H-1B workers over US citizens, signaling increased scrutiny of the program.
H-1B visa scrutiny rises as DOJ launches discrimination probes
The US Department of Justice is investigating H-1B visa-related hiring discrimination claims amid calls for program reform. Several probes are underway, examining allegations of companies favoring visa holders over qualified American workers. Policy changes are also reshaping the H-1B process, including a shift to a beneficiary-centric lottery and potential wage-based allocation.
US scrutiny on H-1B visas: MEA stresses mutual benefits of India-US mobility
India has defended the H-1B visa program amid growing US scrutiny over alleged misuse. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the mobility partnership's importance to technology, economic collaboration, innovation, and financial cooperation between the two nations. This response follows US probes into discrimination and concerns that Indian IT firms are leveraging the system to hire lower-cost workers, prompting calls for reforms.
Indian IT firms' reliance on it fell over years; are less vulnerable: Mohandas Pai on H-1B concerns
Amidst US scrutiny of H-1B visas, Mohandas Pai, former Infosys CFO, has asserted that Indian IT firms' reliance on these visas has significantly decreased. He highlighted data showing major American tech companies are now among the top applicants.
‘Gold Card’ for wealthy investors, wage test for H-1B: Trump administration’s new immigration push
H1B Visa News: The Trump administration is preparing a sweeping overhaul of US immigration rules, targeting both H-1B visas and green cards. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the shift from a lottery-based system to one focused on wages and merit. A new ‘Gold Card’ plan, offering permanent residency in exchange for a $5 million investment, is also under discussion. With Indian workers making up more than 70 percent of H-1B recipients, the proposed changes could have far-reaching effects for professionals and companies alike.
Indian students, visitors can no longer apply abroad for a short-term US visa
The US has barred Indians from applying for student, visitor, or work visas in third countries to bypass long wait times at home. A new State Department directive mandates applications only from the applicant’s country of residence or citizenship. The rule, effective immediately, affects Indians who earlier applied in places like Thailand, Germany, or Brazil.
US immigrants now face higher deportation risks. Here's why
Immigrants in the U.S. are facing increased deportation risks as immigration enforcement agencies utilize IRS data to identify unauthorized employment. Reporting income from side jobs while on visas like H-1B or F-1 can lead to visa denials and removal proceedings. Attorneys advise caution, as tax records are under greater scrutiny, potentially impacting immigration status.
Trump's advisor Navarro needles India once again
Peter Navarro, trade advisor to Donald Trump, is stirring controversy by supporting tariffs on foreign remote workers, potentially impacting India's IT services exports. This move resonates with Trump's "America First" agenda, targeting Indian tech workers and outsourcing. While formal tariffs may be challenging, non-tariff barriers could be employed, posing a threat to India's $250+ billion IT industry.
Govt hasn't done anything to soften tariff blow: Congress
The Congress party has strongly criticized the Indian government following the implementation of 50% US tariffs, blaming Prime Minister Modi's foreign policy for failing to secure a trade deal. Mallikarjun Kharge warned of a significant economic impact, estimating losses of ₹2.17 lakh crore across key sectors, particularly affecting farmers.
H-1B visa rule overhaul replacing lottery with wages paid gets approval from White House
The White House has approved a proposed rule to potentially alter the H-1B visa allocation process, possibly reviving a Trump-era plan. This plan prioritizes wage levels over the current lottery system, a move that could impact the tech industry significantly. Previous attempts to change the H-1B program faced legal challenges and opposition from business groups.
IT Inc worries as US may slap tariffs on software exports
India's IT sector faces potential US tariffs on software exports, threatening its largest market and impacting firms already struggling with global uncertainty and AI-driven automation. The proposed tariffs could lead to double taxation and increased costs due to visa restrictions, potentially harming the growth of India-based service providers and GCCs, while raising delivery costs.
Run from the USA: Students will have to pack their bags fast
Proposed US visa rule changes, limiting durations to four years, are expected to disproportionately affect Indian students compared to their Chinese counterparts. This is because many Indian students rely on post-study work opportunities like OPT and H-1B visas, while Chinese students often return home or pursue funded PhD programs.
Big tech companies accused of bending H-1B rules with job listings
Amid tech layoffs, major US firms face allegations of bypassing hiring rules by directing job applicants to immigration or “global mobility” teams instead of standard channels, a Newsweek report said. Critics argue such practices favour H-1B workers over US graduates, keeping Americans out of jobs. The Trump administration plans reforms to prioritise American workers.
Where the world’s Indians live: Half of overseas Indians reside in just 10 countries
India's diaspora, the world's largest at 3.43 crore, is almost evenly split between PIOs and NRIs, with nearly half residing in ten countries, including the US, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. In 2024-25, the diaspora sent a record $135.46 billion home, a 14% increase, solidifying India's position as the top recipient of remittances.
Beyond tariffs: US creates new visa hurdles for Indian students, visitors
Indians applying for US student or visitor visas in other countries to avoid long wait times at home now face a setback. A new US rule requires non-immigrant visa applications to be made only from the applicant’s home country, ending a Covid-era flexibility and adding more pressure to India's overloaded visa system.
Why Trump’s America can’t do without Indians
Central bankers at Jackson Hole warned developed economies face labor shortages without foreign workers, especially as US policies under Trump restrict immigration, impacting Indian skilled workers vital to STEM and healthcare. A CBO report highlights the US population decline by 2033 without immigration, leading to slower growth. The US needs Indian workers but policies push them away, risking economic consequences.
ETtech Explainer: What is the new H-1B wage-based selection all about
The White House has given the go-ahead for a wage-based H-1B visa selection. This shifts from the current lottery system. The change could affect entry-level salaries and overseas hiring strategies. The USCIS will release the proposal for public comment. This decision may lead to higher wages for foreign workers. It could also impact diversity in hiring practices.
Modi-made 'MEGA' has become 'MAHA headache' for India: Congress on additional US tariffs
The Congress party has attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the United States imposed additional tariffs on India. Jairam Ramesh of Congress said the tariffs will hurt Indian exports. He also mentioned concerns about H1B visas. Ramesh connected Modi's earlier 'MEGA' partnership idea with current trade issues.
Could Silicon Valley’s Indian CEOs get the Intel treatment?
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan faces scrutiny from Trump over ties to China, raising concerns for other diaspora leaders in Silicon Valley, especially Indian-Americans. As India’s tech sector rises, its image as a U.S. partner may shift to that of a rival, making Indian-American leaders vulnerable to the same nationalist backlash Tan faces. Their current prominence may not last.
She studied at a top U.S. university, works as a senior techie at Google, yet H-1B visa jitters shadow her American dream
Despite a stellar career trajectory from Brown University to Google, Surbhi Madan, an Indian-born software engineer, grapples with the precariousness of her H-1B visa status. Her story highlights the anxieties and limitations faced by highly skilled immigrants, impacting personal decisions and career aspirations. The article also touches upon the financial risks associated with pursuing foreign education.
View: America’s mistake with PM Modi is making trade personal
Donald Trump's tariffs on India have sparked defiance rather than worry, complicated by perceived unnecessary swipes from US officials. These actions risk alienating India, especially given the surprising popularity of Trump's potential second term there.
What to know about visas for foreign truckers and the politics of a deadly Florida crash
The U.S. is pausing work visas for some foreign truck drivers, citing safety concerns and potential harm to American truckers, a move impacting a small percentage of the 3.5 million drivers. This decision follows a deadly Florida crash involving an undocumented driver, sparking political clashes between Florida and California governors over immigration policies and responsibility.
Golden visas for Indians: Amid changing rules and global uncertainty, golden visa calculations now include risk-hedging, estate planning, taxation
From EB-5 uncertainty to Portugal’s property ban, wealthy Indian families are rethinking their residency strategies as global rules tighten.
Can staggered investments in Nifty IT ETFs lead to long-term gains?
Despite recent underperformance, wealth managers suggest high-risk investors consider the Nifty IT Index Fund or ETF, staggering investments over 2-3 months. Factors like a high margin of safety, attractive dividend yield, rupee depreciation, and potential easing of tariff concerns create an opportunity. The IT index has fallen significantly, presenting a potential upside with limited downside.
H-1B visa tension rises amid US lawmaker’s call to curb Indian tech hiring
US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene's recent social media post has ignited debate over the H-1B visa program, crucial for Indian professionals. Her call to end Indian H-1B visas, coupled with Trump aide Stephen Miller's accusations of India undermining US interests, has sparked concern.
Indian American lawyer calls out flaws in US medical education system, backs H-1B visas
Harmeet Dhillon, an India-born attorney, has criticized the state of US medical education, pointing to a physician shortage exacerbated by capped residency positions and financial burdens. She advocates for foreign-trained doctors and H-1B visas to fill critical healthcare gaps, particularly in underserved areas. Experts suggest expanding residency programs and offering incentives to address the crisis.
H-1B workers in US are receiving “notices to appear” despite 60-day grace rule post-layoff
A concerning trend has emerged where laid-off H-1B workers in the U.S. are receiving deportation notices, even within their permitted 60-day grace period. Despite regulations allowing this grace period for job transitions, the USCIS is initiating removal proceedings, causing distress among foreign workers.
Children of H-1B visa holders may ‘age out’ and lose green card eligibility under new US policy
USCIS is updating its policy on the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) age calculation, effective August 15, 2025. The new guidance aligns USCIS with the Department of State by using the Final Action Dates chart in the Visa Bulletin to determine visa availability.
Hello, Mr Trump? Hello? Why New Delhi’s outreach isn’t reaching the only man who matters
India-US relations are strained due to Donald Trump's tariffs and perceived lack of diplomatic channels. Anti-India sentiment is growing within the MAGA ecosystem, fueled by H-1B visa concerns. Despite efforts, India struggles to reach Trump, while his engagement with Pakistan raises concerns. A more proactive approach, leveraging personal connections, might have mitigated the damage.
FirstCry trims Q1 loss; Fractal's Rs 4,900-crore IPO
Mother-and-kids retailer FirstCry cut its Q1 FY26 losses as revenue climbed. This and more in today's ETtech Top 5.
Employer-sponsored green cards now take record 3.4 years
US immigrant workers seeking employer-sponsored green cards are facing unprecedented delays, with average processing times now exceeding 3.4 years, a significant increase from 1.9 years in 2016. This prolonged wait, affecting hundreds of thousands, threatens US competitiveness for global talent as backlogs surge and redundant procedures persist across all stages of the green card process.
Trump has come for India’s trade. Are visas next?
Amid escalating trade tensions, the US work visas, particularly the H-1B program crucial for India's IT sector, face increasing vulnerability. Proposed policy shifts, including wage-based selection and enhanced vetting, threaten Indian tech professionals' access to the American job market. This visa issue, coupled with tariff disputes and geopolitical pressures, risks straining the long-standing US-India relationship.
Trump’s former adviser calls for total ban on H-1B visa and restrictions on international students
Stoking debate, Steve Bannon wants a complete stop to the H-1B visa programme. He suggests foreign students must leave the US within 30 days after graduation. Republican Senator JD Vance supports Bannon's stance. Vance criticises tech firms for layoffs while applying for foreign visas. The H-1B programme remains a contentious issue.
India ‘pretends to be a friend’ while blocking US goods & 'cheating' on immigration, says Trump aide
Trade tensions escalate as the US accuses India of unfair practices, including high tariffs and immigration policy misuse. Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller's remarks link visa access to trade concessions, potentially impacting Indian tech professionals. This follows new U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, prompting consideration of retaliatory measures by New Delhi.
'Below average' techie, who barely graduated, reveals how he landed Rs 15 LPA job and a ticket to the US
A tech professional's early education was marked by academic struggles and setbacks, including multiple failed exams and changes in academic paths. Despite facing discouragement and considering vocational training, his mother's faith spurred him to retake and pass his exams.
H-1B children lose green card shot at 21 under new rules
New US guidelines have sparked panic among Indian H-1B visa holders due to their prospective impact on children's eligibility for green cards. Experts say many Indian children risk losing green card eligibility as USCIS moves to use the final action date for age calculation. Immigrant families face the tough choice of returning if even one of their children is denied residency.
H-1B visa cap could soon apply to foreign faculty under new Republican plan
A Republican proposal, the 'Colleges for the American People Act of 2025,' seeks to eliminate the H-1B visa cap exemption for foreign faculty and researchers in US higher education. Introduced by Representatives Tom Tiffany and Andrew Clyde, the bill mandates that all foreign hires at colleges and universities undergo the standard H-1B visa process.
Modi heads to China — a delicate step in the dragon-elephant tango
Amidst fragile relations and border tensions, Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to China signals a calculated step in geopolitics. Facilitated by a pact at the BRICS summit, the visit, tied to the SCO summit, aims to foster regional stability and address trade imbalances. India navigates complex relationships, balancing engagement with China and continued collaboration with the US.
OPT students face visa risk as US cracks down on fake job consultancies
OPT students in the U.S. are under pressure as authorities crack down on consultancies that issued fake payslips to maintain visa status without providing real jobs. With many such firms halting the practice, hundreds now have just 60 days to secure legitimate work or risk losing status.
Indian-origin lawyer named Ohio’s new solicitor general
Mathura Sridharan, an Indian-origin lawyer, has been appointed as Ohio's 12th solicitor general, becoming the state's top attorney for appeals. Attorney General Dave Yost praised Sridharan's legal expertise and dedication to defending Ohioans. However, her appointment triggered racist online backlash, with users targeting her ethnicity and religious attire, despite her qualifications and experience.
US hits FY2026 H-1B visa cap; only exempt petitions to be accepted now
USCIS has reached the H-1B visa limit for FY2026, selecting 120,141 registrations from 343,981 eligible submissions, a significant drop from the previous year. While cap intake is closed, petitions for cap-exempt categories like extensions and employer changes will still be processed. USCIS emphasizes fraud prevention, warning against duplicate registrations and false attestations, and will continue investigations.
India caught in crossfire as Trump uses tariffs to rewrite global trade rules
Donald Trump is reshaping global trade through coercive tactics, using tariffs and the power of the U.S. economy to pressure countries into one-sided deals. India's cautious, incremental negotiation strategy clashed with Trump's demand for immediate, large-scale concessions, leading to stalled trade talks and a 25% tariff imposition.
DHS revisits wage-based selection for H-1B visas; proposal sent for White House review
The Department of Homeland Security is again proposing a rule to overhaul the H-1B visa selection process, moving away from the current lottery system. The new system would prioritize petitions based on wage levels, potentially favoring higher-paid positions.
US will change visa interview policy from September 2
The US Department of State on July 25 announced that all non-immigrant visa applicants barring B1/B2 categories will require in-person interview. The requirement will also cover the previously excluded category of children below 14 years of age and elderly applicants aged over 79.
Trump administration eyes stricter changes to H-1B visa program and US citizenship test
The Trump administration plans to overhaul the H-1B visa program, prioritizing higher-wage earners, according to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow. This move aims to address concerns that foreign workers displace American employees, a debate fueled by figures like Vice President JD Vance. Edlow also believes the U.S. citizenship test is too easy and needs revision.
India-US spat over trade and oil threatens wider fallout
President Trump's trade actions against India, stemming from trade imbalances and Russian oil purchases, threaten to undermine decades of diplomatic progress. These measures, including tariffs and criticism, have strained relations, pushing India to reassess its partnerships. India faces pressure to balance its relationship with the U.S. while exploring ties with Russia and China, navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.
JD Vance torches Microsoft for axing US jobs while doubling down on H-1B visas
Vice President JD Vance has criticized Microsoft and other big tech companies for laying off American workers while simultaneously increasing their reliance on H-1B visas for foreign labor. He questioned the ethics and economics of these companies' actions, especially as Microsoft proceeds with AI hiring after significant workforce reductions. Microsoft's stock price has risen despite the layoffs.
Tariff politics make India Trump’s favourite target – but what’s driving his fixation?
US President Trump has escalated trade tensions with India by imposing a 50% tariff on certain imports, targeting New Delhi's reliance on Russian oil. This move strains the strategic partnership between the US and India, raising concerns about geopolitical arm-twisting and the future of their relationship.
'A slow-motion catastrophe': Trump is setting fire to decades of US-India diplomacy
Evan A. Feigenbaum warns that Donald Trump's policies are jeopardising the US-India relationship, built over 25 years through bipartisan efforts. Trump's transactional approach, including tariffs and pressure on India's foreign policy, risks turning a strategic partner into a political target. This politicisation threatens the trust and shared interests that have underpinned the alliance, potentially leading to a significant geopolitical rupture.
Laid-off H-1B workers face deportation notices despite 60-day grace period
Many H-1B visa holders in America are facing deportation. These people lost their jobs. They are within the 60-day grace period. But they are receiving Notices to Appear. Immigration experts say this violates existing policy. The Department of Homeland Security is sending these notices. This creates confusion and distress. Lawyers urge USCIS to clarify its position.
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal confident of US trade pact ahead of tariff deadline
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed optimism about reaching a trade agreement with the US before the August 1 deadline, aiming to prevent threatened tariffs. Goyal highlighted positive engagement with US officials, emphasizing that immigration rules, including H-1B visas, were not discussed during this year's talks.
Amazon salary filings reveal Rs 2.3 crore pay for H-1B software engineers
Amazon is offering substantial salaries, up to $263,700, to foreign hires for software engineering and other roles under O-1 and H-1B visas. These base salaries, revealed in mandatory filings, don't include equity. Notably, the online retail giant has been cutting jobs at its various divisions with rising focus on AI.
New US bill could give Green Cards to 8 million immigrants. But will it pass?
A bill led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla seeks to update a decades-old immigration law, allowing immigrants who’ve lived in the U.S. for at least seven years to apply for green cards if they meet existing criteria. It could benefit over 8 million people, including Indian nationals stuck in green card backlogs and children at risk of 'ageing out' of dependent visas.
US needs more negotiations with India for trade deal ahead of August 1 tariff deadline
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said more negotiations are needed with India to reach a trade deal before the August 1 tariff deadline. While talks have been constructive, he noted India’s traditionally protectionist trade policies could make major concessions difficult. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal remains optimistic, saying no sticking points remain and immigration issues haven't been discussed.
Should H-1B Visa holders buy a house in the US amid job instability? A viral Reddit post sparks heated debate
A viral Reddit post is making H-1B visa holders rethink buying homes in the US. The post highlights job instability and changing immigration policies. Mass layoffs in tech companies like Microsoft and Intel are adding to the concerns. Some users advise renting for flexibility. Others argue homeownership provides stability. The debate continues as visa holders weigh their options.
Arctic no more? Finland breaks record with 14 straight days over 30°C in shocking heatwave
Finland has shattered its national weather record, experiencing 14 consecutive days exceeding 30°C, surpassing the previous record from 1972. A persistent high-pressure system is responsible for the prolonged heatwave, leading to dry conditions and heightened forest fire risks across the country. While relief is anticipated with incoming rain and thunderstorms, authorities urge caution, especially for vulnerable populations.
Microsoft’s H-1B hiring spree draws criticism amid US job cuts
US labour department filings show that Microsoft has put in 14,181 visa applications in the second quarter of FY2025. Microsoft has consistently said that the US does not issue enough H-1B visas to meet labour market demands.
Ozzy funeral: Where does Sharon Osbourne want to bury the iconic singer? Here's the place she has identified
Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic rock star, passed away at 76 after battling Parkinson's disease. Surrounded by his family, including his wife Sharon, he died peacefully at their Buckinghamshire home. Sharon is reportedly considering a private burial in their garden, while plans for a public celebration in Birmingham are underway to honor his legacy.
Sundar Pichai net worth: How rich is the Google CEO - is he a billionaire?
Sundar Pichai, Alphabet's CEO, has officially become a billionaire, with his net worth reaching $1.1 billion. This milestone is attributed to his Alphabet shares and long-term compensation, boosted by the company's AI-driven growth. Despite selling shares over the years, Pichai's strategic approach and Alphabet's success have solidified his billionaire status.
H-1B visa dominance has shifted in the US — and not to tech giants
New trends in H-1B visa hiring reveal a shift in which US industries are bringing in the most foreign talent. While tech firms have long dominated the program, recent patterns suggest a new group of employers is quietly emerging at the top of the visa pipeline.
H-1B aspirants brace for longer waits, denials
Immigration experts anticipate increased H-1B denial rates, longer processing times, and greater documentation demands under the Trump administration's second term. Following the FY26 application deadline, scrutiny is expected to rise, mirroring trends from Trump's first term, where denial rates peaked. Consequently, alternatives like L-1, EB-5, and EB-2 NIW visas are gaining traction as applicants seek pathways amidst heightened challenges.
You may have to wait for an H-1B visa
Planning to visit the land of opportunity? Well, it might just become a wee bit tougher to get a visa.
The Big list is out: Here are the companies that have the most employees on H-1B visas amid MAGA row
H-1B visas are something of a concern as of now when it comes to foreign immigrants who want to earn a livelihood in the United States. There is a lot of talk going around about Musk supporting the H-1B visa program, hailing from a different country himself. Here's what you should know
Why the US economy can't do without foreigners on H-1B visas
Studies show H-1B workers complement native workers, boost job opportunities and contribute to economic growth. H-1B workers earn high wages, and their presence supports innovation, startup success, and lower unemployment in certain occupations. Restrictions on H-1B visas may lead US companies to move jobs abroad.
H-1B visa registrations drop 27% due to fee hike and policy changes
USCIS data reveals a significant decline in H-1B visa registrations for FY 2026, falling by 26.9% from the previous year and over 54% compared to FY 2024. The agency attributes this drop to stricter policy enforcement, increased registration fees, and fraud investigations. These changes are prompting some to explore alternative opportunities in countries like Australia and Germany.
A 90s obsession among India's middle class fuelled America's tech boom via the H-1B visa
For decades, Indian engineers have dominated the US H-1B visa program, filling critical tech roles due to a combination of India's focus on engineering education and the US's growing demand for skilled workers. This influx has led to Indian nationals receiving over 70% of H-1B visas annually.
Sweeping H-1B visa overhaul just one nod away from becoming a reality
The White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) is reviewing a major overhaul of the H-1B visa program, marking the final step before its release, according to a Bloomberg Law report. The new regulations, issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services, include changes to eligibility standards, degree requirements, and the annual lottery system, which now gives all applicants an equal chance.
When can the US revoke your H‑1B visa — legally?
Recent immigration measures under President Trump have heightened concerns among legal immigrants and H-1B visa holders. Enhanced scrutiny, travel bans, and expedited deportations contribute to widespread uncertainty. The H-1B visa, crucial for skilled professionals, faces potential revocation if employment ends, terms are violated, fraud is detected, or the employer's business status changes, impacting long-term planning in the US.
Republican Senator does not expect Donald Trump to weaken H1B visas
H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows American firms to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.
H-1B visa registration for 2026 to open from March 7
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the registration period for the fiscal year 2026 H-1B cap will open from 10:30 PM IST on March 7, 2025, to 10:30 PM IST on March 24, 2025. During this time, petitioners must register beneficiaries electronically via a USCIS online account and pay the $215 registration fee.
How to register for an H-1B Visa electronically
The initial registration period for FY 2022 will open at noon Eastern Time (ET) on March 9 and run through noon ET on March 25. Both representatives and registrants must wait until March 9 to create and complete H-1B registrations.
H-1B visa issue is now a thing of the past, says Union Minister Piyush Goyal
The H-1B visa issue is now "a thing of the past," declared Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, indicating it will no longer be a topic of international discussions. He also emphasized the need for a stable exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the U.S. dollar, along with topics like tourism and the digital economy, positioning India as an attractive destination for global investment.
Are H-1B visa holders in trouble again? Things to know before facing US immigration officers
H-1B and other employment-based immigrant visa applicants in the US have been asked for their addresses and biometric data by the US immigration authorities through Requests for Evidence. These are in connection with the federal agency's claim about possession of ‘adverse information’ regarding some of the individuals.
Are H-1B visa holders in trouble again? Things to know before facing US immigration officers
H-1B and other employment-based immigrant visa applicants in the US have been asked for their addresses and biometric data by the US immigration authorities through Requests for Evidence. These are in connection with the federal agency's claim about possession of ‘adverse information’ regarding some of the individuals.
Why US tech layoffs have left Indian workers on H-1B visas in a tough spot?
The US tech industry is experiencing significant layoffs, severely impacting Indian workers on H-1B visas. Stricter visa regulations and increased application fees are adding to their challenges. Long green card wait times further complicate their situation, making it difficult for them to secure stable employment and residency in the US.
This Trump appointment may spell trouble for Indian techies
Miller’s stance on immigration, especially regarding H-1B visas, has been firm. Despite the economic benefits of international students and high-skilled immigrants, the Trump administration sought to restrict work opportunities for foreign nationals, including measures to limit H-1B visa issuance and eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students. The Cruz-Sessions bill, supported by Miller, would have imposed stringent work requirements and a high salary threshold for H-1B visa holders.
H-1B visa 2025: Selection timeline, fees, and what to expect next
The H-1B visa registration for fiscal year 2025 closed on March 24, with notifications due by March 31. Successful applicants have 90 days to file their petitions. The 2026 registration window is expected next March. The Trump administration may introduce policy changes. Employers must pay a $215 fee per application and meet eligibility criteria, including a Labor Condition Application.
Former Google techie offers survival tips for H-1B visa holders amid layoffs
A former Google software engineer, who is a Chinese national on an H-1B visa, is sharing advice on LinkedIn for fellow tech immigrants on how to navigate job loss. Having experienced a layoff at Amazon previously and sensing potential job cuts at Google, he decided to take proactive steps to prepare for the possibility of being laid off. He emphasized the unique challenges faced by H-1B visa holders during layoffs, where securing a new sponsoring employer is crucial for maintaining legal status in the country.
H-1B visa registrations begin, here’s all you need to know
The H-1B visa registration for fiscal year 2025 opened on March 6, following a major overhaul of the lottery system announced by the US federal agency in January. The White House Press Secretary emphasized President Biden's commitment to addressing issues within the legal immigration system, including the H-1B visa process and green card application backlog.
Google, Amazon & Microsoft have a word of warning for their H-1B visa staff
US tech companies are advising employees on H-1B visas to avoid international travel due to uncertainties in immigration policies under the Trump administration. Indian tech workers, the largest group of H-1B holders, face long waits for green cards, adding to their anxiety. Major employers include Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
USCIS to accept H-1B visa registrations from March 1, 2022
USCIS will assign a confirmation number to each registration submitted for the FY 2023 H-1B cap, which can be used to track registrations. Under the new system the agency now follows, applicants will register electronically and pay a $10 registration fee.
US court sets aside plea, IT service companies will need to file more evidence when hiring H-1Bs
IT cos have failed to convince a US court that submitting detailed evidence for H-1B visa has caused them harm.
H-1B visa application changes to come into effect on March 20. Fee hike & other key details
The H-1B visa program is undergoing significant changes starting March 20, as the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduces a new registration system. This system replaces the previous process and aims to improve fairness and efficiency in selecting H-1B recipients. Key updates include a more equitable selection process, mandatory electronic registration for employers, and a rise in registration fees from $10 to $215.
Elon Musk shares solutions to fix the 'broken' H-1B Visa system
Elon Musk has reignited the debate over the H-1B visa system, labeling it "broken" and advocating significant reforms, including raising salaries and imposing annual costs on employers to prioritize elite talent. Despite his criticisms, Musk staunchly defends the program's role in fostering innovation and promises to "go to war" for skilled immigrants.
US to triple visa cost for Indians in 2026; apply now to avoid ₹20,000 hike
Traveling to America will be more expensive for Indians. From 2026, a new Visa Integrity Fee of $250 will be added. The total visa cost will rise to $472. This affects tourist, student, and work visas. The US says it's to ensure visa compliance. Indians can save money by applying before 2026. Apply in 2025 to avoid the new fee.
H-1B visa lottery is shutting out top talent. Replace it
The H-1B visa program for foreign college graduates faces criticism for not effectively serving its purpose. It fails to reward top talent and may negatively impact American workers' wages. Suggested reforms include raising salary thresholds and adopting a merit-based system. These changes aim to attract exceptional global talent to boost the US economy.
H-1B lottery is too easily gamed. Here’s how to fix it
Each year, hundreds of thousands of educated foreigners vie for one of 85,000 H-1B visas to work in the U.S., but the selection is purely random, decided by lottery rather than merit. This system has long been criticized for its inefficiency and susceptibility to manipulation, such as IT staffing firms flooding the lottery with multiple entries and outsourcing companies applying for more visas than needed.
Techies may soon be able to get their renewed H-1B visas stamped while still in the United States
Until 2004, certain categories of non-immigrant visas, particularly the H-1B, could be renewed or stamped inside the US. After that, those on H-1B would have to return to their own country to get the H-1B extension stamped on their passport.
Pre-registration of H-1B applications likely from next April
For applications that will be filed in April 2020, the earliest successful applicants will be able to work in the US will be from October 1 that year.
USCIS may permit H-1B visa holders to work remotely in US
However, indications are that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may soon decide to allow H1-B visa holders to do so, despite the fact that one of the requirements for H-1B visa workers is that they should be employed at the address mentioned on the labour condition application filed by employees.
Greater USCIS scrutiny raise fears among many Indians filing H-1B visa petition
H-1B visa: USCIS may deny a petition, or revoke a petition approval, based on a registration that contained a false attestation, the US agency said
Four out of five H-1B visa holders get higher wages than US average: Study
The average offered wage for all 61,420 H-1B requesting employers in FY 2019 was $100,461, while the average prevailing wage determination for that skill level was $83,619, according to the analysis done by American think-tank Cato Institute. It contradicts a recent study by another US think-tank that had said 60% of H-1B workers are paid below the local median wage for the job.
Denied H-1B visa to Indian professional, US IT firm sues Trump government
Xterra Solutions alleged in its lawsuit that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) improperly denied H-1B visa to Praharsh Chandra Sai Venkata Anisetty, 28, whom it had hired as a Business System Analyst.
European teens 4x likelier to get US summer work visa than graduates getting H-1B visas
The H-1B visa is the most restrictive in the U.S. immigration system, with only 20% of applications approved due to the 85,000 annual cap. This limits the ability of employers to hire skilled foreign workers, particularly in fields like AI. In FY 2025, over 300,000 qualified individuals were denied, highlighting challenges in retaining top talent and the need for visa reform.
The new H-1B visa modernisation rule: Decoding America's newest immigration update
On January 17, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security introduced a final rule modernizing the H-1B visa program. Key updates include redefining specialty occupations, stricter compliance measures, extended protections for F-1 students, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and codifying prior approval deference.
NRI Helpdesk: What is the minimum criteria to hire a foreign national as an H-1B worker?
For our NRI readers, we have started an immigration helpdesk. Write to us at nri.economictimes@gmail.com and our team of experts will address the most pressing issues.
