The impending return of Donald Trump to the White House in early 2025 has ignited anxieties among Indian immigrants seeking to secure H-1B visas and US green cards. Trump’s previous administration implemented several policies that tightened immigration restrictions, prompting concerns about a potential resurgence of these measures under his second term.
One of Trump’s most controversial proposals was to end birthright citizenship, a fundamental principle that grants US citizenship to anyone born on American soil. This policy, along with his plans to drastically reduce the number of H-1B visas and introduce stricter eligibility criteria, has sent shockwaves through the Indian immigrant community, many of whom rely on these pathways to build their lives and careers in the US.
The H-1B visa program is particularly crucial for Indian professionals, especially those in the technology sector. Indians make up a significant portion of H-1B visa holders, and the program’s potential curtailment has raised fears about the future of skilled Indian workers in the US.
During Trump’s first term, the US government significantly increased restrictions on H-1B visas, leading to a surge in denial rates. The rejection rate for H-1B visas jumped from 4% to 17%, while L-1 visa denials climbed from 12% to 28%. These visa categories are highly sought after by Indian nationals as stepping stones to obtaining a US green card.
A green card grants permanent residency in the United States, offering access to various benefits, including work authorization, the right to sponsor family members for immigration, and a path to citizenship. The waiting time for a US green card can be lengthy, and the potential for further delays or restrictions under a Trump administration has heightened anxieties for Indian immigrants.
While the future of US immigration policy remains uncertain, the prospect of a Trump presidency has already sparked a sense of unease among Indian immigrants seeking to make their mark in America. The implications of potential policy changes could profoundly impact the lives and careers of countless individuals who have chosen the US as their home.
