US H-1B Visa Changes Hit Indian Applicants with Unpredictable Costs and Tougher Odds
The US H-1B visa program has undergone significant changes under President Trump's administration. Indians, who are one of the largest groups applying for this visa, face unpredictable costs, tougher odds, and greater risks. The new regulations make it more challenging for Indian professionals to obtain an H-1B visa.
According to Fragomen, a global immigration law firm, the changes have increased the complexity and uncertainty associated with the H-1B application process. The firm notes that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now prioritizing the selection of H-1B petitions, making it more difficult for Indian applicants to secure a visa.
The USCIS has also introduced new requirements for H-1B petitioners, including the need to demonstrate that the hiring process was not affected by a layoff or downsizing. This additional scrutiny can lead to increased costs and longer processing times for applicants.