Proposed Changes to H-1B Visa Could Significantly Affect Indian Workers
Green Card dreams at risk? This H-1B visa proposal could change everything for Indians

Image: Business News India
Texas Congressman Chip Roy's new legislation aims to overhaul the H-1B visa system, which could drastically impact Indian professionals, who make up 70% of H-1B holders in the US. Key changes include a shift to a merit-based system and a reduction in visa duration.
- 01The H-1B visa is crucial for skilled foreign workers, especially in STEM fields, with 70% of holders being Indian.
- 02The proposed bill seeks to replace the current lottery system with a merit-and-wage-based approach.
- 03It aims to reduce the maximum stay on H-1B visas from 6 years to 2 years and eliminate extensions while awaiting a green card.
- 04The bill could lead to a green card wait time of 10-20 years for Indian applicants due to country-specific caps.
- 05If passed, the bill would also eliminate Optional Practical Training (OPT), impacting many Indian students.
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Texas Republican Congressman Chip Roy has introduced a bill to reform the H-1B visa system, which is vital for skilled foreign workers, particularly those from India, who constitute about 70% of H-1B holders in the United States. The proposed legislation aims to replace the existing lottery system with a merit-and-wage-based approach, reducing the maximum duration of H-1B visas from 6 years to 2 years. Additionally, it seeks to cancel extensions for visa holders awaiting green cards, potentially extending the wait time for Indian professionals to 10-20 years due to existing country-specific caps. Currently, the H-1B visa allows for dual intent, enabling holders to pursue permanent residency without jeopardizing their status. The bill also targets Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows international students to work post-graduation, often serving as a pathway to H-1B sponsorship. If enacted, these changes could significantly affect the ability of Indian professionals to live and work in the US, as many rely on these provisions.
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The proposed changes could severely limit the ability of Indian professionals to work in the US, extending their green card wait times and eliminating pathways like OPT.
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