MEA addresses H-1B Visa concerns as Donald Trump returns to White House with his immigration policies

India expressed its commitment to enhancing dialogue with the United States on H-1B Visa policies and related issues, emphasizing the importance of mobility and migration as part of their bilateral relationship. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasizing India’s interest in maintaining robust dialogue on these issues with the U.S., said, "We would like to have a good dialogue with them on all these issues", adding, “Our relations have become stronger.”

Importance of mobility and migration in U.S.-India relations

Jaiswal emphasised that mobility of professionals, migration partnership, and educational exchange are vital aspects of India-U.S. ties.

“As far as H-1B is concerned, mobility and migration partnership is a part of the bilateral relations between our two countries,” said Jaiswal, noting the significant number of Indian professionals working in the U.S. and Indian students pursuing studies there. "And many of our professionals work in the US, several Indian students study there," Jaiswal noted.

He highlighted that these connections contribute to a broader investment partnership.

Trump's 2nd term may bring tougher immigration policies

As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, concerns are mounting over potential restrictive immigration policies, particularly regarding H-1B and L-1 visas, widely used by Indian IT professionals and skilled workers. A recent report by JM Financial indicated that Trump's previous stance on employment-based immigration may resurface, bringing about renewed scrutiny and higher denial rates for these visas.

Trump’s track record on employment-based immigration

The report highlighted that during Trump’s first term, his executive order "Buy American and Hire American" led to increased restrictions on H-1B visas, raising initial denial rates for H-1B visas from 4% to 17% and L-1 visa denials from 12% to 28%. If similar policies are reintroduced, they could impact IT services firms, which heavily depend on these visas to source talent from India.

Proposed wage hike for H-1B holders

The Trump administration previously attempted to raise minimum wage requirements for H-1B visa holders, which would have made it costlier for employers to hire foreign talent. Although courts blocked these wage policies, their reintroduction could strain tech firms relying on foreign workers for specialized skills.

Trump's vision for a 'Golden Age' of America

In his US election victory speech on Wednesday at the Palm Beach Convention Center in Florida, Trump, celebrated what he called an "unprecedented and powerful mandate," promising supporters a “golden age” for America. He described his win as a chance to fulfill his pledge to "make America great again," a vision that could encompass tougher immigration policies.

The tech and IT sectors are closely watching for new policies that could reshape the landscape for skilled foreign workers in the United States.