International Desk
23 March
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist & Research Analysist
The US government, under former President Donald Trump, has tightened visa policies, affecting thousands of Indian professionals and students. The H-1B visa program, which allows skilled foreign workers to work in the US, has seen a significant decline in applications. This year, only 270,000 applications have been received, far lower than the expected 700,000. The application process runs from March 3 to March 24. Additionally, the application fee has increased by 210%, from ₹840 to ₹18,060, forcing companies to be more selective in hiring foreign employees.
Many Indian software engineers in Silicon Valley say rising costs, higher fees, and stricter filing rules are making it harder to secure H-1B visas. Companies are also becoming cautious in sponsoring foreign workers due to these new restrictions.
Indian students applying for F-1 study visas are also facing challenges. New rules limit applicants to one passport per application, reducing overall applications. University counselors predict a further decline in Indian student enrollments. A Columbia University counselor stated that concerns about campus racism, social media attacks, and post-graduation job opportunities are making Indian students hesitant. A student from Texas University mentioned that while the US remains a dream destination, uncertainty about jobs and safety is creating fear among Indian students.
Due to these visa restrictions, many skilled Indian professionals are choosing Canada instead. Since Trump’s policies took effect, more than 10,000 Indian tech professionals have moved to Toronto.
In 2023, Indians received 72.3% of the total 386,000 H-1B visas, down from 77% in 2022. Immigration attorneys warn that Indian travelers to the US face strict visa stamping, airport checks, and possible detentions. Legal US residents are also advised to be cautious before traveling outside the country.