A top official stated that the Biden administration is committed to securing visas for all students whose school year begins this summer that the United States is expected to issue more than a million visas to Indian nationals in 2023.
According to sources, the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu mentioned that they are also prioritising work visas: H-1B’s and L visas, the most sought-after by IT professionals from India.
“We’ve also been prioritising work visas: H-1B’s and L visas. Wait times at some of our consular sections in India, for these visas are now below 60 days. We will continue to make sure that we prioritise visas for workers, as this is vital for both the American and the Indian economy,” Lu said.
For certain petition-based nonimmigrant work of visa categories, we plan to restart domestic visa renewal for applicants who meet certain requirements, including being physically present in the United States. We plan to have a pilot up and running later this year. This would eliminate the need for these applicants to travel abroad to renew their visas,” he added.
In response to a question on those Indian IT professionals who are on H-1B visas and have lost their jobs, Lu noted that the Department of Homeland Security recently put out some new information specifically on the point of what these workers ought to do who want to readjust their status.
I think part of the answer you can find in a really strong diaspora community in the US. For 30 years or more, our relationship is in part driven by Indian Americans who have lived here for decades, but still keep a very strong tie with India,” he said.
What Is H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows American companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that ask for theoretical or technical specialisation. It is necessary for the recruitment of thousands of workers from countries such as China and India by tech companies each year.
Important Dates For Registration of H-1B Visa
Important Dates For Registration of H-1B Visa
March 1: H-1B registration period begins at noon Eastern
March 17: H-1B registration period ends at noon Eastern
March 31: The date by which USCIS is slated to notify selected registrants
April 1: The earliest date that FY 2024 H-1B cap-subject pleas may be filed.