H-1B visa has increased tension, know what other options are there for job in America?

The H-1B visa is crucial for those who work in US IT companies, especially in remote areas where local professionals are not available and there is a high dependence on foreign workers. 

The US government has increased the fee for H-1B visas to $100,000, or approximately Rs 8.8 million. This new fee will only apply to new visa applications and has been implemented under an order from US President Donald Trump. However, the US government has clarified that in some cases, the visa fee may be waived in the national interest. The H-1B visa is crucial for experts and trained professionals who come to work in US hospitals and IT companies. This is especially true in remote areas where local professionals are not available, leading to a greater reliance on foreign workers. 

The impact of increasing fees 

Regarding the increase in H-1B visa fees, NASSCOM, the leading IT industry organization, says that in the last few years, Indian companies have reduced their dependence on H-1B visas in the US. The number of H-1B visas issued from India in 2015 was 14,792, which will decrease to 10,162 in 2024. NASSCOM says that the new fees will only apply to new applications and will not affect existing visa holders. According to NASSCOM, the number of H-1B visa employees in large companies is less than one percent of the total workforce. The salaries of employees working under this visa are equal to those of local employees. 

New job options in America after the fee hike 

Following the increase in H-1B visa fees, many companies are turning to the L-1 visa. This visa is for employees who already work for a company and wish to transfer to the US. This requires at least one year of experience with the company and a role that requires specialized knowledge. Additionally, the O-1 visa is available for employment in the US. This visa is issued to professionals with exceptional talent. The J-1 visa is also available for employment in the US. This visa is for trainees and interns. Additionally, you can work in the US with the EB-1A visa. This visa also grants direct green cards to professionals with exceptional talent. Students completing their studies in the US are also permitted to work for up to three years under the STEM OPT program. 

Impact on students studying in the US 

H-1B visa fees could impact entry-level jobs. Furthermore, changes to the visa will likely result in companies prioritizing local or American graduates. This could reduce job opportunities for Indian students. Consequently, Indian graduates are seeking opportunities in countries like Japan, Ireland, Canada, and Europe.