Us change visa policy: American Republican Senator Rick Scott and John Kennedy have made a proposal, aimed at reversing the rules of Biden administration, which extended the duration of the automatic renewal of the work permit from 180 days to 540 days. The purpose of this change was to provide relief to the visa holders who continue to function valid in the US during the renewal process of their work permits.
Republican senators say that this rule makes it difficult to monitor immigration laws. Describing it as “dangerous”, Senator John Kennedy said that it weakens the immigration policy of the Trump administration. They believe that this detail will make it difficult to monitor those immigrants who are living illegally in America and are working.
Possible impact on Indian professionals
The dispute mainly affects H-1B and L-1 visa holders, which work in areas such as technology, engineering and finance. The number of Indian citizens is very important in these. Out of the H-1B visa issued in 2023, 72% of the visas were received by Indian citizens and L-1 visa was also a large part of Indians.
H-1B and L-1 visa holders benefits
The rule of Biden administration has provided stability to Indian H-1B and L-1 visa holders during work permit renewal. Earlier, by extending the automatic renewal period of 180 days to 540 days, they could remain in American jobs, while their work permit status is being updated. This expansion provides the necessary protection for their business and family.
What are H-1B, L-1, and other visas?
- H-1B visa: This visa is for special foreign workers in industries like technology, engineering, and finance.
- H-4 visa: It is for dependents (spouse and children) of H-1B holders and also has the eligibility of some work authorization.
- L-1 Visa: This allows multinational companies to transfer employees to American branches. L-1A is for executive officers and for employees with L-1B specialized knowledge.
- L-2 visa: This allows dependents of L-1 visa holders to work and study.
Republican senators proposed proposal
This proposal introduced by Republican Senators can be worrying for H-1B and L-1 visa holders, especially Indian professionals. If this proposal is passed, the automatic duration of the work permit renewal will decrease, which can make it difficult for these professionals to maintain jobs in the US. Now it has to be seen what will be the reaction of US administration and other political parties to this proposal.
Also read: Donald Trump on Gaza: Ruckus with Trump’s statement, ‘America’s’ rights ‘in Gaza, there is no future of Palestinians here’