The recent wave of layoffs in the US tech industry has significantly impacted Indian workers, especially those on H-1B visas. Stricter visa regulations and rising application fees add to the challenges faced by immigrants and skilled laborers.
Scale of Layoffs
According to Layoffs.fyi, over 438 tech companies have laid off approximately 137,500 employees, challenging the long-held belief that the tech sector is recession-proof. H-1B visa holders find themselves particularly vulnerable due to strict timelines requiring them to secure new employment or face deportation.
Visa Challenges and Green Card Delays
The situation is exacerbated by extensive wait times for green cards. The US Congressional Research Service indicates that many Indian workers endure decades-long backlogs, with some facing waits of over 190 years for permanent residency. Despite meeting all labor requirements, these delays create uncertainty for Indian tech professionals.
Recent Policy Changes
Recent changes in US visa policies have further complicated matters for Indian workers. The October 2024 visa bulletin from the US Department of State raised concerns across multiple visa categories, including the EB-5 investor visa program, which facilitates residency through substantial investments. Delays for applicants from India and China remain a pressing issue.
Surging Visa Fees
Adding financial strain, the application fee for H-1B visas has surged from $10 to $215—an increase of 2150%. Similarly, fees for paper filing have risen from $460 to $780, reflecting a 70% jump. These costs present significant challenges for applicants navigating a precarious job market.
Increased Costs for Green Card Applicants
Green card applicants also face heightened expenses, with the I-30 petition fee rising to $675 for paper submissions and $625 for online applications. A new $600 fee for certain asylum petitions has been introduced, and international students applying for F, M, and J visas face stricter scrutiny, requiring more accurate passport information.
Conclusion
In this tightening immigration landscape, the combination of layoffs, lengthy green card wait times, and soaring visa fees has left Indian workers in a precarious situation, intensifying their struggle to achieve stable employment and residency in the United States.
Related Topics: