H-1B Visa: In a move to fortify the integrity of the H-1B registration process and mitigate fraud risks, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a final rule for the fiscal year 2025 H-1B cap.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced revisions in certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees. This marks the first adjustment since 2016.
The US Embassy and Consulates in India processed 1.4 million visas in 2023, with a 75% reduction in appointment wait times despite increased demand. Indians make up one-tenth of all US visa applicants globally.
US politicians are discussing changes to the H-1B visa regime as immigration becomes a major issue in the upcoming November election. Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has expressed anti-immigration sentiments, while President Joe Biden proposes more flexible rules. Tech companies will be impacted by the changes, including fee hikes and stricter eligibility requirements.
In 2023, the US processed a record-breaking 1.4 million visas for Indians, leading to a 75% reduction in wait times. Indians now make up 1/10th of all US visa applicants globally, with demand increasing by 60%. The US Embassy and Consulates in India highlighted the surge in visa applications across all categories, with visitor visas and student visas reaching historic highs.