With the US remaining a leading choice for Indian students seeking higher education, understanding the intricacies of student and work visas has grown more essential. The transition from an international student to a working professional in the US requires understanding different visa categories, such as the F-1 and H-1B visas.
Recent reforms and policy alterations, such as the suggested termination of birthright citizenship for offspring of non-permanent residents, have created uncertainty among Indian working professionals and students. The H-1B visa, an essential resource for US employers seeking to employ talented foreign workers, has been a focal point of these changes.
What visa options are available for Indian students in the US?
The F-1 visa permits foreign students to engage in full-time education at a prominent college or university in the US. This visa category also allows students to attend an English language school. F-1 visa holders may engage in Optional Practical Training (OPT) upon finishing their degree, which enables them to work in their area of study for a maximum of three years, with a chance for a STEM extension.
The H-1B visa is a non-permanent visa enabling US companies to employ foreign experts with specialized knowledge, usually in areas such as technology, healthcare and engineering. The visa is granted for an initial period of three years, which can be extended to a total of six years. To secure an H-1B visa, employers need to submit a petition to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and prove that employing a foreign specialist will not negatively impact US employees.
Numerous international students who finish their education in the US move to an H-1B visa after obtaining sponsorship from an employer in the US. This change is a typical route for students to secure long-term employment in the US.
The suggested changes to the H-1B visa system, such as eliminating birthright citizenship for offspring of non-permanent residents, have sparked uncertainty among Indian professionals and students in the workforce. The focus of the US government on “America First” strategies has resulted in escalated examination of visa programs, such as the H-1B visa.
With the ongoing changes in the US immigration landscape, it is crucial for Indian students and professionals to remain updated on the recent developments and prerequisites for F-1 and H-1B visas. By understanding the nuances of these visa categories, individuals can effectively maneuver through the complexities of US immigration law and attain their academic and career objectives.
