H-1B Visa Under Threat in US as Bill Is Introduced, Impact on Indian Professionals

New Delhi: The stir regarding H-1B visa has once again intensified in America. A new bill related to abolishing this visa system has been introduced in the US Parliament, after which the concern of migrant workers and especially Indian professionals has increased. A large number of foreign citizens, especially those involved in the IT and technical sectors, work in America through H-1B visas. In such a situation, this proposal is being seen as a sign of a major change in American immigration policy.

Why has the proposal to abolish H-1B visa been brought?

The lawmakers who introduced the bill say that the H-1B visa affects the jobs of American citizens. They argue that companies hire foreign workers at low wages, reducing opportunities for local workers. On this basis, a demand has been raised to abolish the visa system or make major changes in it.

What provisions have been made in this bill?

The proposed bill calls for phasing out the H-1B visa program. Under this, companies may be forced to reduce dependence on foreign employees and give priority to American citizens. However, all the provisions of the bill are still under discussion.

What impact can this have on Indian professionals?

The share of Indians among those getting H-1B visas is considered to be the highest. Thousands of Indians working in fields like IT, engineering and healthcare are working in America on this visa. If this arrangement ends, the opportunities for new applicants to work in America may be limited.

What is the reaction of American companies?

Many American tech companies seem uneasy about this proposal. Companies say they need highly skilled employees, who are not always available locally. The abolition of H-1B visas is expected to impact innovation and competition.

Has there been any strictness on H-1B visas before?

In the last few years, the rules related to H-1B visa have been tightened several times. Document scrutiny became more stringent than ever before, the application process became longer and more complex and approval rates fluctuated. However, till now no initiative to completely abolish this visa system has taken concrete form.

What are the chances of this bill being passed?

Political experts say that it takes time for any law related to immigration to be approved in America. The proposal will first be discussed in detail in Parliament, amendments may be made to it, and then approval of both houses will be necessary. In such a situation, the passing of this bill in its present form is not yet considered certain.

What is the reaction in the expatriate community?

There is an atmosphere of concern among people working on H-1B visas. Many professionals are considering it related to their career and future. Voices have started being raised against this proposal on social media and various forums.

What can be the way forward?

Experts believe that instead of abolishing the visa completely, the government can adopt the path of reforming it. Options like increasing salary standards and stopping abuses can also be considered. At present, all eyes are on the next parliamentary action on this bill.