US Visa Policy: indian professionals going to get big benefit!
The H-1B visa allows employers in the US to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. This visa requires more knowledge. indian professionals have a major participation in this. In 2023, 72.3 percent of the 386,000 H-1B visas were issued to Indians. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced changes to the H-1B visa program, which will take effect from january 17, 2025. These changes are aimed at increasing the efficiency of the program, bringing transparency, and preventing abuse.
Main reforms in the H-1B visa program
Now there should be a correct link between degree and job. This amendment will make the visa application process cleaner and more flexible. The process of transfer to H-1B visa has become easier for students studying in the US on F-1 visa. As long as their H-1B application is pending, their F-1 visa will be automatically extended till april 1. Non-profit and government research organisations will also be eligible for exemption from the H-1B visa cap, even if their main focus is not research. This is an important change for beneficiaries working in research-related fields.
Strengthening the integrity of the programme
Employers will have to certify that a legitimate 'specialty occupation' job is available for the visa holder. DHS may request documents to confirm the genuineness of the job, thereby ensuring transparency and integrity of the process.
What is special for indian professionals?
These reforms open up many possibilities for indian professionals. Due to the high participation of Indians, these changes can be more beneficial for them, especially in technical and research fields. indian students will get a big relief due to the easy process of conversion from F-1 visa to H-1B.
Possible benefits of H-1B visa programme
Transparent process: More clarity and transparency for both employers and beneficiaries.
Flexibility: Improvements in cap-exemption rules lead to more opportunities in research areas.
Effective transition: Smooth transition from F-1 to H-1B for students.
Beneficial for US companies
These changes in the H-1B visa programme from 2025 will not only help US companies attract talent but will also open up new opportunities for indian professionals. These reforms, which focus on transparency, efficiency and security, will prove to be a positive step for indian techies.
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