H-1B visa latest: Federal investigators are expanding their probe into alleged abuses of the H-1B foreign ...More

H-1B visa latest: Federal investigators are expanding their probe into alleged abuses of the H-1B foreign-worker program. The investigation focuses on fraudulent hiring, worker exploitation, and potential human trafficking issues. Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito indicated that a significant case is being built against these concerns. The Trump administration has also moved to tighten controls around H-1B visa hiring practices. ...Less

Donald Trump has extended for another year his executive order imposing a $100,000 fee on certain new H-1 ...More

Donald Trump has extended for another year his executive order imposing a $100,000 fee on certain new H-1B visa applications, even as the policy faces multiple court challenges. The higher charge does not apply to renewals or to many foreign students already in the US who later move to H-1B status. ...Less

US President Donald Trump has directed federal agencies to consider employers' past and planned layoffs w ...More

US President Donald Trump has directed federal agencies to consider employers' past and planned layoffs when reviewing H-1B visa petitions and related applications. The order also calls for the use of federal economic data and a review of previously submitted labour condition applications, potentially increasing scrutiny and enforcement against sponsoring employers. ...Less

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies supports H-1B visa program scrutiny. They caution th ...More

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies supports H-1B visa program scrutiny. They caution that this should not impede American innovation and economic growth. Highly specialized jobs often require foreign talent not immediately available domestically. The organization advocates for a transparent, merit-based system with strong enforcement. This approach balances worker protection with the need for global expertise. ...Less

The Congress accused the Narendra Modi government of appeasing US President Donald Trump after the White ...More

The Congress accused the Narendra Modi government of appeasing US President Donald Trump after the White House extended the USD 100,000 H-1B visa payment requirement for certain petitions by 12 months. The party said the move would affect Indian IT professionals, students and job opportunities. Trump has also ordered tighter scrutiny of H-1B applications. ...Less

Indian expat and digital content creator Pritesh Jagani has shared the steps he says helped him become a ...More

Indian expat and digital content creator Pritesh Jagani has shared the steps he says helped him become a millionaire while working in the US on an H-1B visa. He described a gradual approach built around budgeting, an emergency fund, debt repayment, financial planning, career growth and regular investing, while avoiding lifestyle inflation as his income increased. ...Less

India's software exporters--Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, HCLTech, Wipro, LTM and Tech Mahind ...More

India's software exporters--Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, HCLTech, Wipro, LTM and Tech Mahindra--filed for 1,763 visas against a combined 21,919 registrations in FY26, amid tighter rules, a $100,000 fee for new visas and an overhaul of the lottery system to prioritise highly paid and skilled workers. ...Less

The US administration has renewed a USD 100,000 fee for certain H-1B visa petitions. This move could sign ...More

The US administration has renewed a USD 100,000 fee for certain H-1B visa petitions. This move could significantly affect Indian IT professionals and students seeking employment. Smaller companies may now avoid sponsoring H-1B visas altogether due to increased costs. Indian professionals might explore opportunities in the UK, Canada, and Australia. This policy change aims to strengthen program integrity and curb perceived abuses. ...Less

H-1B registrations by the largest information technology staffing and outsourcing firms fell 92% to 2,055 ...More

H-1B registrations by the largest information technology staffing and outsourcing firms fell 92% to 2,055 from 24,946, while consular-processing requests dropped nearly 97% between the FY25 and FY27 registration cycles, according to US government data. ...Less

Top Indian IT firms have sharply cut H-1B visa filings as rules tighten. This and more in today’s ETtech ...More

Top Indian IT firms have sharply cut H-1B visa filings as rules tighten. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5. ...Less

US Vice President JD Vance defended changes to the H-1B visa program. He stated the administration seeks ...More

US Vice President JD Vance defended changes to the H-1B visa program. He stated the administration seeks highly skilled workers, not displacing American professionals. New measures include a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. Companies laying off American workers should not seek foreign replacements. These reforms aim to enrich the American economy and prevent low-wage labor replacement. ...Less

President Trump proposed a new fee on H-1B visa petitions. This measure aims to encourage companies to hi ...More

President Trump proposed a new fee on H-1B visa petitions. This measure aims to encourage companies to hire American workers first. The Department of Homeland Security previously advanced a similar rule. This adjustment is proceeding through standard federal regulatory channels. The initiative supports a broader fiscal agenda favoring local personnel. ...Less

The 2026 US midterms could make H-1B policy a political test among Indian-American voters, with Trump-era ...More

The 2026 US midterms could make H-1B policy a political test among Indian-American voters, with Trump-era fees and tighter scrutiny affecting a community closely tied to skilled migration. But immigration is only part of the equation, with inflation and jobs ranking higher among voter concerns and the wider debate increasingly tied to economic growth, talent and the US technology workforce. ...Less

Shares of OFSS fell over 7% while top IT stocks including Infosys, Wipro, and Coforge dropped up to 2% on ...More

Shares of OFSS fell over 7% while top IT stocks including Infosys, Wipro, and Coforge dropped up to 2% on Monday. The drag comes following reports of Oracle's $18 billion data centre debt pressure and US President Donald Trump extending the $100,000 H-1B visa fee by another year. ...Less

Indian IT’s H-1B dependence was shrinking well before Donald Trump’s latest immigration crackdown. New H- ...More

Indian IT’s H-1B dependence was shrinking well before Donald Trump’s latest immigration crackdown. New H-1B approvals for seven major Indian IT firms fell 70% from 2015 levels by FY2025 as companies hired locally and moved more work offshore. The new fees and enforcement push could now accelerate that shift. ...Less

The Trump administration has proposed scrapping the 60-day grace period that gives H-1B and several other ...More

The Trump administration has proposed scrapping the 60-day grace period that gives H-1B and several other foreign workers time to find a new employer after losing a job. If finalised, affected workers would generally have to leave the US immediately unless they have another legal basis to stay. ...Less

The landscape of S&P 500 boards has seen a noteworthy shift, with Indian men now occupying a record 16 se ...More

The landscape of S&P 500 boards has seen a noteworthy shift, with Indian men now occupying a record 16 seats. This development reflects the increasing preference for directors equipped with CEO-level expertise. In contrast, Indian women's representation on boards continues to stagnate. Compounding these dynamics, future entry for Indian executives into the US job market may face challenges due to prevailing immigration policies. ...Less

From October 1, the US will expand social media screening to I, TN and TD visa applicants, requiring fore ...More

From October 1, the US will expand social media screening to I, TN and TD visa applicants, requiring foreign journalists, USMCA professionals and their dependants to make all social media profiles public or open. The move adds these categories to an online vetting regime that already covers H-1B workers, students, exchange visitors and several other visa classes. ...Less

Happy Friday! IRDAI's overhaul plan could significantly impact the new-age insurance distribution industr ...More

Happy Friday! IRDAI's overhaul plan could significantly impact the new-age insurance distribution industry. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch. ...Less

Congress criticises the government for introducing charges on UPI transactions for merchants. This move i ...More

Congress criticises the government for introducing charges on UPI transactions for merchants. This move is seen as appeasing United States demands and impacting local competition. The government stated that consumers will not face any charges for UPI payments. This policy change signals a significant shift for the UPI payment system. Opposition parties have voiced strong criticism regarding the new levy. ...Less

Cognizant’s US green-card labour certification filings have been suspended amid a federal fraud investiga ...More

Cognizant’s US green-card labour certification filings have been suspended amid a federal fraud investigation, according to Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito. The move could delay some employees’ green-card sponsorship, but officials have not disclosed the allegations, number of affected cases or duration of the suspension. ...Less

The Trump administration has put forward a proposal to eliminate the 60-day grace period previously estab ...More

The Trump administration has put forward a proposal to eliminate the 60-day grace period previously established for foreign workers. Under this new rule, H-1B and other work visa holders would need to exit the US immediately following job loss. Here's how it will impact Indian workers. ...Less

The US Department of State has introduced an online portal for reporting suspected visa fraud and misuse. ...More

The US Department of State has introduced an online portal for reporting suspected visa fraud and misuse. This initiative aims to enhance the detection of fraudulent activities related to visas, benefitting national security. Citizens are encouraged to submit tips about potential violations through the dedicated portal. Authorities will review these submissions and take action against identified fraudsters. ...Less

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday alleged that a "system" had captured the country and feared stud ...More

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday alleged that a "system" had captured the country and feared students' questions at the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' programme in Indore. He raised concerns over vacant teacher posts and school closures, while students highlighted recruitment delays, alleged irregularities in examinations and a shortage of tribal hostels. ...Less

Subcontractor costs as a share of revenue increased sequentially at most firms in the June quarter, Kotak ...More

Subcontractor costs as a share of revenue increased sequentially at most firms in the June quarter, Kotak Institutional Equities said in a note. The ratio rose to 9.6% at LTM from 8.3% in March, to 15.5% from 15.3% at Persistent Systems, to 11.7% from 11.5% at Wipro and to 8.7% from 8.5% at Infosys. ...Less

USCIS has flagged three H-1B cases involving alleged job misclassification and understated requirements t ...More

USCIS has flagged three H-1B cases involving alleged job misclassification and understated requirements that could have resulted in lower wages. The cases in Vermont, Nebraska and Florida involved technology and engineering roles, with USCIS denying, revoking or prompting withdrawal of affected petitions. ...Less

Recent proposals from the US administration indicate a sharp rise in H-1B visa fees, which could challeng ...More

Recent proposals from the US administration indicate a sharp rise in H-1B visa fees, which could challenge employers, especially in tech and consulting roles that depend on these visas. Legal challenges are underway regarding the legitimacy of these increased fees. The stricter vetting processes are complicating recruitment and expansion efforts, leading to a noticeable decrease in the number of H-1B visa applications. ...Less

A proposed $103,265 fee for H-1B petitions could raise sponsorship costs significantly. Indian profession ...More

A proposed $103,265 fee for H-1B petitions could raise sponsorship costs significantly. Indian professionals, who dominate H-1B approvals, may face substantial financial impacts. This new charge is separate from a previously proposed $100,000 payment still under litigation. The Department of Homeland Security expects billions in revenue from this proposed fee. Employers in technology and healthcare sectors express concerns about hiring specialized talent. ...Less

An NRI who spent 23 years in the US has shared why he eventually moved back to Mumbai, saying he "felt sa ...More

An NRI who spent 23 years in the US has shared why he eventually moved back to Mumbai, saying he "felt safer" there. After building a career in biomedical engineering, working in the pharmaceutical industry and starting a business, he decided to return following his father's death and to support his ageing mother. His account has drawn supportive reactions online. ...Less

Cognizant’s US immigration practices are back under scrutiny after authorities suspended its employment-b ...More

Cognizant’s US immigration practices are back under scrutiny after authorities suspended its employment-based green-card filings amid a federal fraud investigation. The action follows years of declining H-1B activity and earlier court scrutiny of the IT major’s visa-related employment policies. ...Less

Cognizant and US enterprise software company Cloudera’s PERM filings have been suspended, labour departme ...More

Cognizant and US enterprise software company Cloudera’s PERM filings have been suspended, labour department inspector general Anthony D’Esposito said in an X post on Tuesday, citing an investigation into possible fraud and misuse of employment visa programmes. ...Less

The Nifty IT index experienced its largest single-day drop in three months on Wednesday. Several IT stock ...More

The Nifty IT index experienced its largest single-day drop in three months on Wednesday. Several IT stocks saw significant declines, reversing recent gains in the market. Renewed risk-off sentiment and US interest rate hike worries triggered the broad sell-off. Geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices also contributed to the pressure on IT firms. Concerns over H-1B visa costs and generative AI disruption added to the challenges. ...Less

A 28-year-old Indian data scientist left her six-figure US job just two months after her employer-sponsor ...More

A 28-year-old Indian data scientist left her six-figure US job just two months after her employer-sponsored H-1B was selected, returning to Gurugram without another offer. Her decision comes amid wider uncertainty around H-1B workers, proposed H-4 EAD restrictions and a rush among some Gujarat families towards EB-5 permanent residency. ...Less

A proposed $100,000 fee could impact international students' work opportunities in the US. This significa ...More

A proposed $100,000 fee could impact international students' work opportunities in the US. This significant charge might affect students and universities relying on international graduates. The proposal's details remain unclear regarding who will ultimately pay the fee. Indian students, often using OPT for initial US work experience, could be significantly affected. Universities might reduce international admissions if forced to bear this substantial financial burden. ...Less

International students on OPT faced immigration checks in New Mexico. Officers requested I-20 forms and O ...More

International students on OPT faced immigration checks in New Mexico. Officers requested I-20 forms and OPT cards from the traveling group. Some students had to show digital proof of their current employment status. This incident highlights increased scrutiny of OPT programs by US authorities. Foreign students are now advised to carry all immigration documents during domestic trips. ...Less

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security plans to raise the H-1B visa fee to $103,265, according to a not ...More

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security plans to raise the H-1B visa fee to $103,265, according to a notice posted in the Federal Register on Monday. ...Less

Western visa rules are tightening, impacting skilled Indian professionals seeking overseas employment. Ri ...More

Western visa rules are tightening, impacting skilled Indian professionals seeking overseas employment. Rising sponsorship costs and stricter criteria are forcing many to reconsider their international career plans. This trend is leading to a 'reverse brain drain' as companies in India seek returning talent. Job seekers face challenges finding comparable roles and salaries upon their return. ...Less

Germany has overtaken the US as the top study-abroad choice among Indian students in upGrad’s 2026 survey ...More

Germany has overtaken the US as the top study-abroad choice among Indian students in upGrad’s 2026 survey, with preference for Germany jumping from 25% in 2023 to 48%. Lower tuition, technical programmes and clearer post-study work options are driving the shift as traditional destinations tighten immigration rules. ...Less

The Trump administration is proposing a $103,265 fee for H-1B petitions for workers hired within the US, ...More

The Trump administration is proposing a $103,265 fee for H-1B petitions for workers hired within the US, adding a major cost for employers seeking skilled foreign professionals, according to Bloomberg Tax. The proposal follows a court ruling that overturned Trump’s earlier $100,000 H-1B fee for workers hired from outside the US. ...Less

The US has proposed a $103,265 fee for new cap-subject H-1B petitions, but employers do not have to pay i ...More

The US has proposed a $103,265 fee for new cap-subject H-1B petitions, but employers do not have to pay it yet. This explainer breaks down the six steps before implementation—from public comments and DHS review to a final rule, USCIS filing instructions and the fee’s effective date. ...Less

In a potential policy shift, the US Department of Homeland Security has suggested ending H-4 EAD eligibil ...More

In a potential policy shift, the US Department of Homeland Security has suggested ending H-4 EAD eligibility for spouses, significantly affecting many Indian families enduring extended green card delays. While individuals with existing H-4 EADs will maintain their work authorization for now, this proposal necessitates an extensive federal rulemaking timeline and public commentary. As such, any final outcome might be delayed for months and could meet with legal opposition. ...Less

Families from Gujarat are increasingly seeking US permanent residency through the EB-5 investor visa prog ...More

Families from Gujarat are increasingly seeking US permanent residency through the EB-5 investor visa program. This surge is driven by H-1B visa uncertainties and the exhaustion of EB-5 visas for India in fiscal year 2026. Parents are funding their children's EB-5 applications to secure long-term US pathways. The minimum investment for this program currently stands at $1.05 million. ...Less

US Vice President JD Vance has defended the Trump administration’s proposed $103,000 fee on new H-1B visa ...More

US Vice President JD Vance has defended the Trump administration’s proposed $103,000 fee on new H-1B visas, saying American companies should prioritise hiring and training US workers. The proposed charge would significantly raise costs for employers recruiting skilled foreign professionals. ...Less

Once a country begins to treat access to its markets, its currency and its financial system as instrument ...More

Once a country begins to treat access to its markets, its currency and its financial system as instruments of pressure, then the logic will get applied to more and more cases. The fact is that the US has become addicted to coercion through economic measures and not only will this habit be hard to break, it will expand to more and more areas. ...Less

The US is preparing another H-1B overhaul, with DHS proposing changes to cap exemptions, employer scrutin ...More

The US is preparing another H-1B overhaul, with DHS proposing changes to cap exemptions, employer scrutiny and third-party placements. The move comes just a day after a separate $103,265 H-1B fee proposal, adding to a series of measures tightening the skilled-worker programme. ...Less

The White House has reviewed a proposal to end the 60-day grace period for foreign workers. This change w ...More

The White House has reviewed a proposal to end the 60-day grace period for foreign workers. This change would require visa holders to depart the US immediately after job termination. Indian nationals are significant beneficiaries of these H-1B employment visas. Eliminating this period could cause immediate disruption for many families. The proposal now moves towards public comment before finalization. ...Less

Infosys, TCS, HCL Tech, Wipro and other IT stocks are in focus after the US Department of Homeland Securi ...More

Infosys, TCS, HCL Tech, Wipro and other IT stocks are in focus after the US Department of Homeland Security proposed a $103,265 fee on H-1B cap-subject petitions. The charge would be additional to existing fees and could generate $8.8 billion annually, based on 85,000 petitions. The proposal is not final and will undergo a 30-day public comment period. ...Less

Indian IT companies have invested $1.1 billion in the US over five years to build the local science, tech ...More

Indian IT companies have invested $1.1 billion in the US over five years to build the local science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) talent base, Nasscom said. The efforts have reduced their dependence on H-1B visas and reached 2.9 million students and 255,000 employees, as the US proposes a higher H-1B fee. ...Less

The proposed $103,265 H-1B fee could accelerate the movement of technology work from the US to India-base ...More

The proposed $103,265 H-1B fee could accelerate the movement of technology work from the US to India-based Global Capability Centres, economist Santosh Mehrotra said. Companies may increasingly access Indian talent from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and NCR instead of moving workers to the US. ...Less

Anush Kinusa strongly advises international students to reconsider their plans to study in the United Sta ...More

Anush Kinusa strongly advises international students to reconsider their plans to study in the United States. With the suspension of the CPT program, which is vital for securing internships, and the alarming rise in OPD and H1B visa fees, the situation has become precarious for students. Kinusa recommends exploring alternative countries like France, Canada, Germany, and Switzerland, as the job market in the U.S. is increasingly competitive. ...Less

The Trump administration has proposed a $103,265 fee on employers filing new cap-subject H-1B petitions, ...More

The Trump administration has proposed a $103,265 fee on employers filing new cap-subject H-1B petitions, including for foreign students already in the US. Unlike the earlier $100,000 fee, the proposal targets petitions rather than entry and could therefore affect US graduates. ...Less

The Trump administration is moving closer to unveiling new H-1B petition fee rules after a DHS proposal c ...More

The Trump administration is moving closer to unveiling new H-1B petition fee rules after a DHS proposal cleared White House review. The details are yet to be made public, with the move coming amid wider changes to the visa programme, Bloomberg Law reported. ...Less

India is grappling with rising global bond yields and surging oil prices, which are heightening imported ...More

India is grappling with rising global bond yields and surging oil prices, which are heightening imported inflation. These economic challenges pose a threat to sustained corporate profits. Meanwhile, SEBI's auction initiative aims to bolster market integrity and enhance price discovery. Although RBI's new deposit guidelines provide some temporary relief amidst foreign exchange pressures, they don't offer a lasting solution. ...Less

An Indian-American group voiced concerns over proposed H1-B visa fee increases. The proposed fees could m ...More

An Indian-American group voiced concerns over proposed H1-B visa fee increases. The proposed fees could make hiring jobs overseas economically impractical for companies. This move might negatively impact cash-strapped startups and large corporations significantly. International student enrollment in the United States is already showing signs of weakness. The group urges a more proportionate funding approach for agency operations. ...Less

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has proposed banning public schools from employing H-1B visa holders, potentia ...More

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has proposed banning public schools from employing H-1B visa holders, potentially affecting districts that recruit foreign teachers to address shortages. The proposal requires approval from the Texas Legislature before it can take effect. ...Less

Canada is fighting Donald Trump on two fronts: retaliating against US tariffs while courting skilled work ...More

Canada is fighting Donald Trump on two fronts: retaliating against US tariffs while courting skilled workers affected by his immigration crackdown. Ottawa plans targeted pathways for researchers and H-1B holders even as it cuts overall immigration, turning the US-Canada dispute into a competition for talent as well as trade. ...Less

Trump’s immigration crackdown now reaches beyond the H-1B programme, affecting students, families, invest ...More

Trump’s immigration crackdown now reaches beyond the H-1B programme, affecting students, families, investors, asylum seekers and temporary visitors through higher fees, tougher screening, visa revocations and country-based restrictions. While routes such as L-1, O-1 and family-sponsored immigration remain open, no legal pathway is entirely free from new risks. ...Less

Nasscom has urged the US to reconsider the proposed $103,265 H-1B fee in light of the programme’s role in ...More

Nasscom has urged the US to reconsider the proposed $103,265 H-1B fee in light of the programme’s role in addressing temporary skill shortages. It said Indian technology companies have reduced their H-1B workforce while investing over $1.1 billion in US STEM talent development. ...Less

Nearly one million Indians are stuck in the US employment-based green card backlog, accounting for 79% of ...More

Nearly one million Indians are stuck in the US employment-based green card backlog, accounting for 79% of those waiting in the first three categories, NFAP estimates. Indians filing in 2026 could potentially face waits of 179 years in EB-2 and 38 years in EB-3. ...Less

The US education-to-employment route is becoming costlier for Indian students. Annual costs at 16 college ...More

The US education-to-employment route is becoming costlier for Indian students. Annual costs at 16 colleges have crossed $100,000, while a proposed $103,265 H-1B employer fee could complicate post-study hiring. Meanwhile, Indian first-year applications to US colleges have fallen 14%. ...Less

Donald Trump’s second-term immigration strategy has relied on multiple legal and administrative routes to ...More

Donald Trump’s second-term immigration strategy has relied on multiple legal and administrative routes to tighten entry and stay in the US. When courts block one measure, the administration has often pursued the same objective through narrower orders, agency rules, higher fees or additional screening. ...Less

America built its immigration advantage over decades through jobs, universities, family networks and path ...More

America built its immigration advantage over decades through jobs, universities, family networks and pathways to citizenship. As migrant communities expanded, they made migration easier for next generation. This compounding network helped turn the American Dream into a self-sustaining global draw, particularly for skilled workers and international students. ...Less

A new US rule will extend a $4,000 H-1B fee to certain visa extensions from September 9, increasing recur ...More

A new US rule will extend a $4,000 H-1B fee to certain visa extensions from September 9, increasing recurring costs for employers heavily dependent on foreign workers. However, the charge may remain cheaper than replacing experienced skilled employees. ...Less

Happy Wednesday! AMI has ordered 9,000 Nvidia Vera Rubin chips, becoming one of Asia’s first such adopter ...More

Happy Wednesday! AMI has ordered 9,000 Nvidia Vera Rubin chips, becoming one of Asia’s first such adopters. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch. ...Less

School assembly headlines for August 26 cover major national developments, including the Supreme Court's ...More

School assembly headlines for August 26 cover major national developments, including the Supreme Court's ruling in the Tarun Tejpal case, Delhi's H1N1 surge and DRDO missile tech transfer. International news includes Israeli strikes on a Gaza hospital and US-Iran sanctions tensions. Sports highlights feature India's dominant position against Sri Lanka in Colombo and Mirabai Chanu's Commonwealth record-breaking lift. The bulletin also covers education and economic updates. ...Less

School assembly news headlines, August 27: Floods in Nepal have caused fatalities and missing persons, pr ...More

School assembly news headlines, August 27: Floods in Nepal have caused fatalities and missing persons, prompting humanitarian aid from India. India's economic transformation is driven by urbanization and digital infrastructure development. International relations saw sanctions and diplomatic discussions between various nations. Sports news highlighted hockey fitness and chess tournament progress. Educational initiatives include new support systems and scholarship programs for students. ...Less

Zerodha’s profit growth has slowed as its core broking business comes under pressure. This and more in to ...More

Zerodha’s profit growth has slowed as its core broking business comes under pressure. This and more in today's ETtech Top 5. ...Less

A U.S. judge invalidated a Trump administration policy that suspended immigrant visas. This policy had ta ...More

A U.S. judge invalidated a Trump administration policy that suspended immigrant visas. This policy had targeted applicants from seventy-five different countries. The judge stated the policy exceeded the Secretary of State's statutory authority. The State Department announced this suspension in January, impacting many nations. Immigrant rights groups and visa applicants had filed the lawsuit against this policy. ...Less

US proposal to end the 60-day H-1B grace period threatens job displacement. Experts warn this change will ...More

US proposal to end the 60-day H-1B grace period threatens job displacement. Experts warn this change will lead to significant loss of skilled talent. Indian nationals, a large group of H-1B visa holders, face severe impacts. The Department of Homeland Security's plan is deemed inhumane and unworkable. Advocates urge for a compassionate 180-day grace period instead. ...Less

New H-1B fees and stricter wage requirements are increasing employer costs. A wage-weighted selection sys ...More

New H-1B fees and stricter wage requirements are increasing employer costs. A wage-weighted selection system now favors higher-paid applicants over random lotteries. These changes make the H-1B visa pathway more precarious for foreign workers. Many companies are moving staff outside the United States due to visa barriers. The administration's actions may harm the nation's global talent attraction. ...Less

The Trump administration is preparing to expand an existing fee on H-1B and L-1 visas by applying it to e ...More

The Trump administration is preparing to expand an existing fee on H-1B and L-1 visas by applying it to extension petitions, not just new applications and job changes. The move would raise costs for employers that rely heavily on foreign workers, with Indian professionals expected to be among the most affected. ...Less

According to data from the US immigration platform Boundless Immigration, based on the USCIS data, in FY2 ...More

According to data from the US immigration platform Boundless Immigration, based on the USCIS data, in FY25, Indians had filed 14,250 petitions of which 6,993 were approved and 1,474 were denied. As of FY26, based on the available data for the first two quarters, Indians filed 7316 petitions. Of this, 2,571 petitions were approved and 1,131 were denied. ...Less

The US Department of Homeland Security has expanded the $4,000 H-1B and $4,500 L-1 biometric fee to cover ...More

The US Department of Homeland Security has expanded the $4,000 H-1B and $4,500 L-1 biometric fee to cover same-employer extensions filed by companies with at least 50 US employees where more than half the workforce is on H-1B or L-1 status. ...Less

Canadian employers with small work locations can now hire more low-wage temporary foreign workers. New fe ...More

Canadian employers with small work locations can now hire more low-wage temporary foreign workers. New federal rules permit businesses with fewer than ten employees to hire one or two workers. This change allows some employers to exceed the usual workforce percentage caps. In-demand sectors like healthcare and construction can hire up to two workers. These updated regulations aim to address labor needs across various industries. ...Less

A US Republican senator has introduced a bill seeking to pause new H-1B visa issuances for three years an ...More

A US Republican senator has introduced a bill seeking to pause new H-1B visa issuances for three years and restore a $100,000 fee on H-1B petitions introduced by the Trump administration but struck down by a court. The proposed End H-1B Abuse Act aims to tighten eligibility rules, replace the visa lottery with a wage-based system, restrict outsourcing models, and curb benefits for visa holders' dependents. ...Less

The US may end the H-1B 60-day grace period after job loss. Here's what the proposed 2026 H-1B change cou ...More

The US may end the H-1B 60-day grace period after job loss. Here's what the proposed 2026 H-1B change could mean for Indian workers, H-4 families and green-card applicants. ...Less

Tighter US student visa and immigration rules are making Asian students reconsider America as their prefe ...More

Tighter US student visa and immigration rules are making Asian students reconsider America as their preferred study destination. Growing uncertainty could push talent towards countries such as the UK and Australia, potentially weakening the US skilled workforce, innovation and economic growth. ...Less

Two US immigration policy shifts could make it harder for Indians to work or settle there. USCIS can now ...More

Two US immigration policy shifts could make it harder for Indians to work or settle there. USCIS can now deny inadequately documented applications without seeking additional evidence, while a proposed rule could eliminate the 60-day grace period for laid-off H-1B workers. ...Less

The US Department of Labor has updated its H-1B debarment list, naming four employers as willful violator ...More

The US Department of Labor has updated its H-1B debarment list, naming four employers as willful violators of visa rules. The companies are temporarily barred from filing H-1B petitions and face additional compliance requirements and possible random investigations. ...Less

United States immigration rules are changing for skilled foreign workers. The Trump administration is con ...More

United States immigration rules are changing for skilled foreign workers. The Trump administration is considering removing the grace period for unemployed visa holders. This policy shift could significantly impact Indian professionals working in the US. India may benefit by reversing its brain drain and retaining talent. Developing a strong domestic ecosystem is crucial for capitalizing on this opportunity. ...Less

Rick Jackson's company, Avant Healthcare Professionals, settled a lawsuit for three million dollars. Thou ...More

Rick Jackson's company, Avant Healthcare Professionals, settled a lawsuit for three million dollars. Thousands of foreign-born nurses accused the company of exploiting their labor. This settlement contrasts with Jackson's hardline immigration campaign message. Avant recruited nurses legally, while Jackson focused on illegal immigration enforcement. The case highlights the complexities of legal immigration and business interests. ...Less

The Economic Times Startup Awards (ETSA) is back for a 12th edition. Today, we announce the high-powered ...More

The Economic Times Startup Awards (ETSA) is back for a 12th edition. Today, we announce the high-powered jury and nominations for two categories, Bootstrap Champ and Top Innovator. ...Less

Changes in US immigration regulations are increasingly complicating matters for Indian nationals. New dir ...More

Changes in US immigration regulations are increasingly complicating matters for Indian nationals. New directives now allow for the swift denial of immigration applications without any notification. Furthermore, a potential regulation could remove the existing 60-day grace period for H-1B visa holders, leading many Indian professionals to investigate more secure residency options and clearer pathways in America. ...Less

US employers are changing hiring and retention strategies for foreign professionals. This shift occurs as ...More

US employers are changing hiring and retention strategies for foreign professionals. This shift occurs as H-1B program changes make it more expensive and unpredictable. Companies now focus on long-term immigration plans starting with student visas. They are also accelerating green card sponsorships due to processing delays. This approach aims to provide more predictable work authorization for employees. ...Less

The US Department of Homeland Security has expanded the $4,000 H-1B and $4,500 L-1 biometric fee to same- ...More

The US Department of Homeland Security has expanded the $4,000 H-1B and $4,500 L-1 biometric fee to same-employer visa extensions from September 9, 2026. The fee applies only to employers with at least 50 US employees where more than half the workforce is in H-1B or L-1 status. The employer, not the visa holder, must pay the fee, while companies that do not meet these thresholds remain outside the requirement. ...Less

Asaduddin Owaisi criticizes the central government regarding the United States' new H-1B visa fee. He que ...More

Asaduddin Owaisi criticizes the central government regarding the United States' new H-1B visa fee. He questions the benefits of events like "Howdy Modi" and "Namaste Trump." Owaisi suggests the US doesn't value India's strategic partnership. He highlights the potential impact on remittances and Indian IT companies. Owaisi urges the government to introspect on foreign policy and national security. ...Less

The US has reached its H-1B visa cap for Fiscal Year 2027, with USCIS confirming it received enough petit ...More

The US has reached its H-1B visa cap for Fiscal Year 2027, with USCIS confirming it received enough petitions to fill all 85,000 available slots. As a result, no second H-1B lottery will be held this year. The article explains what the announcement means, highlights the new weighted lottery system, and outlines key registration figures released by USCIS. ...Less

The US Department of Homeland Security may eliminate a 60-day grace period for certain foreign workers. T ...More

The US Department of Homeland Security may eliminate a 60-day grace period for certain foreign workers. This proposed change could significantly impact Indian professionals working in the United States. Currently, this period allows workers time to find new employment or depart the country. The proposal is under review and has not yet taken effect. If finalized, the rule would require immediate departure after job termination. ...Less

Indian professionals secured nearly seventy percent of US H-1B visa approvals in fiscal year 2025. Techno ...More

Indian professionals secured nearly seventy percent of US H-1B visa approvals in fiscal year 2025. Technology occupations represented the largest category of approved H-1B petitions. Median annual salaries for H-1B workers climbed to $133,000 during this period. Master's degrees were held by over fifty-seven percent of approved beneficiaries. H-1B registrations for fiscal year 2026 saw a notable decrease. ...Less

Texas has paused approvals for new data centers as Governor Greg Abbott orders a sweeping audit of projec ...More

Texas has paused approvals for new data centers as Governor Greg Abbott orders a sweeping audit of projects seeking access to the state’s power grid. The move comes as Elon Musk expands his Texas footprint and concerns grow over soaring electricity demand, water use and the impact of AI data centers on local communities. ...Less

As the Trump administration tightens immigration rules for foreign workers and students, recent academic ...More

As the Trump administration tightens immigration rules for foreign workers and students, recent academic research challenges a key premise behind the crackdown. Multiple studies suggest international STEM graduates do not displace American workers and instead help fill skill shortages while supporting innovation and employment. ...Less

The US State Department said most visa revocations followed law enforcement encounters involving assault, ...More

The US State Department said most visa revocations followed law enforcement encounters involving assault, drunk driving, theft, drug offences and other crimes. ...Less

The US government plans to reform the H-1B visa and green card system. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick ...More

The US government plans to reform the H-1B visa and green card system. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calls the current H1-B visa system a scam. The Trump administration aims for wage-based immigration and merit-driven selection. The goal is to replace the lottery system with a selective model. Past attempts to change the system faced opposition. ...Less

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with US Vice President JD Vance on strengthening t ...More

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with US Vice President JD Vance on strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Modi also extended his congratulations to Vance and the Second Lady on the birth of their son. ...Less

In a statement on July 28, the agency said that while the Department of Homeland Security disagreed with ...More

In a statement on July 28, the agency said that while the Department of Homeland Security disagreed with the court’s order, it will comply with it even as it considers next steps. If this order is later lifted, DHS still plans to collect the payment, the agency said. ...Less

India's economic affairs department on Friday cautioned against disruptions due to the imposition of a on ...More

India's economic affairs department on Friday cautioned against disruptions due to the imposition of a one-time fee of $100,000 for all future H-1B visas, and said it was a "reminder of risks of trade uncertainties affecting the hitherto unaffected services sector". ...Less

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the recent tightening of the H-1B visa rules in t ...More

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the recent tightening of the H-1B visa rules in the US is a short-term hurdle and that demand for Indian tech talent will remain strong. His remarks come after the US announced a USD 1 lakh supplemental fee for new H-1B applications filed from September 21, 2025. ...Less

The Trump administration introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants. A Reddit user, back from ...More

The Trump administration introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants. A Reddit user, back from the US, highlights issues with Indian managers exploiting visa holders. The user also points out favoritism towards certain Indian regions. This post ignited a debate on social media. Many users shared similar experiences. ...Less

The Trump administration proposed changes to the H-1B visa process to prioritize higher-skilled, better-p ...More

The Trump administration proposed changes to the H-1B visa process to prioritize higher-skilled, better-paid workers if annual demand exceeds 85,000 visas. The move, outlined in a Federal Register notice, follows a White House plan introducing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas. The policy aims to protect U.S. workers from wage competition and targets tech and outsourcing sectors. ...Less