New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on his way to the US. He will meet US President Donald Trump on February 13. The two leaders will discuss a number of key issues, including tariff and trade talks and visa and immigration issues. Prime Minister Modi plans to push for more H-1B visas, which are important for Indian IT workers. Trump has supported the H-1B visa programme, which helps skilled foreign workers, especially in tech, come to the US. India receives the most H-1B visas and wants to ensure this program continues.
As per media reports, immigration is an important issue. India is working to address the US’ concerns about illegal migrants. India is working with the US to address concerns about illegal migrants. After US deportation orders, India sent back over 100 of its citizens. The discussions will focus on how to manage the return of more Indian nationals who face deportation.
As visas will be on the cards, let’s examine their importance and why they matter.
Why visas matter?
Visas are needed if you want to travel to a country that requires them for visitors from your home country.
Many countries have agreements allowing citizens to travel freely without needing a visa. For example, Canadians and Americans can visit each other without a visa as long as they have valid travel documents. However, Canadians need a visa to go to Bhutan because the two countries have no visa agreement.
Why do countries have visa restrictions?
Countries set visa restrictions to manage who enters and leaves and to prevent illegal immigration and crime. By requiring a visa, authorities can check the backgrounds of potential visitors. Some people might illegally try to enter a country to find better job opportunities.
Now let us look at H-1B visa and how it matters.
What is H-1B Visa?
An H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign workers for a set period of time. The visa is for speciality occupations that typically require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Key Points About the H-1B Visa
- Specialty Occupation: The job requires special knowledge and usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Employer Sponsorship: A US employer must support the foreign worker and submit the necessary paperwork to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).
- Annual Cap: There is a limit on the number of new H-1B visas early. If more applications come in than visas are available, they will use a lottery to choose which applications will be processed.
- Lottery System: Because many people apply, a lottery randomly picks which applications will go through if the number exceeds the limit.
- Duration: H-1B status is given for an initial period of three years and can be extended.
- Dual Intent: Holders of this visa can plan to stay in the U.S. permanently while working with an H-1B visa.
Why does the H-1B visa matter to students and workers?
The H-1B visa is important for students and workers because it allows foreign nationals with advanced degrees to work legally in the United States in specialised jobs. This visa helps them build their careers in the US after finishing their studies, especially in high-demand fields like technology, science, and engineering. It is particularly valuable for international students who want to stay in the US after graduation.
Key points about the H-1B visa for students and workers:
- Career opportunities: It helps international students gain work experience in the US after graduation, which can lead to long-term career prospects.
- Access to high-demand jobs: It allows US companies to hire skilled workers worldwide to fill jobs that need specialised knowledge.
- Economic impact: It supports the US economy by bringing in skilled talent to fill important industry roles.
- Pathway to potential permanent residency: Although the H-1B visa is temporary, it can sometimes lead to applying for a green card and permanent residency in the US.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the US includes crucial talks with US President Donald Trump. Key issues include trade and visa programmes. The article explains the significance of the visas and the H-1B visa. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
