The US State Department is expected to announce a new policy that will make it easier for a small number of Indians and other foreign workers on H-1B visas to renew their visas in the US, without the need to travel abroad.
Making it Easier for Indians to Live and Work in the United StateS
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States, the Joe Biden administration plans to leverage this opportunity to facilitate the entry and stay of skilled Indian workers in the country. Citing three sources familiar with the matter, news agency Reuters reported that the US State Department could make the announcement as early as Thursday. This new policy would allow a select group of Indians and other foreign workers on H-1B visas to renew their visas within the US itself. It is part of a pilot program that has the potential to be expanded in the coming years.
Indian Citizens as Active Users of the H-1B Program
Indian citizens constitute the largest user group of the US H-1B program, accounting for 73% of the nearly 442,000 H-1B workers in the fiscal year 2022. Recognizing the value of mobility for its people, the US State Department has been actively exploring innovative ways to bring about changes in the program. While specific details about which visa types would qualify or the timing of the pilot launch remain undisclosed, the US State Department spokesperson declined to comment on these matters. However, plans for the pilot program were initially reported by Bloomberg Law in February.
An Opportunity to Enhance Workforce Mobility
The pilot program is set to begin with a limited number of cases, with the aim of gradually scaling up the initiative over the next one to two years. The exact size of the initial group is yet to be defined. It is important to note that these steps are subject to change and are not considered final until they are officially announced. The White House has chosen not to comment on the matter.
Overview of the H-1B Program
The US government annually offers 65,000 H-1B visas to companies seeking skilled foreign workers, in addition to an extra 20,000 visas for workers with advanced degrees. These visas are initially granted for a three-year period and can be renewed for an additional three years.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US also included notable events such as leading a historic yoga event at the UN headquarters in New York on the 9th International Day of Yoga, as well as meetings with influential thought leaders and business magnates.
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