The pilot program for renewing temporary work visas in the US, that will provide relief to countless Indian workers on H-1B visas, has been welcomed by an Indian community in the country.
“I am honoured and happy to see this announcement by the White House Joint Statement and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi himself making an announcement. The H1B restamping in the USA will bring relief to over one million people on H1B,” Ajay Bhutoria, a Silicon Valley technology executive, community leader, speaker and author, said in a statement.
“The successful implementation of in-country H1B visa stamping renewal represents a crucial step toward creating a more efficient and humane immigration system. The alleviation of financial and emotional burdens for legal immigrants and their families signifies progress in ensuring a more inclusive and welcoming society,” it said.
Bhutoria is a prominent advocate for immigration issues and in 2021, Biden had announced his intent to appoint him on the President’s Advisory Commissioner on AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) Commission.
During the US India Summit hosted by Bhutoria in Milpitas, California, State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary Nancy Jackson made an important announcement regarding a pilot program. This announcement further emphasised the significance and impact of the individual’s advocacy.
The Joint Statement issued during Indian Prime Minister Modi’s State Visit last month also highlighted the announcement by the State Department. The leaders, President Biden and Prime Minister Modi, welcomed the news that the State Department would initiate a pilot program to process domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas later in the year.
This pilot program would initially include Indian nationals and aimed to expand in 2024 to encompass a broader pool of H-1B and L visa holders. The program’s ultimate goal is to include other eligible categories as well.
The H-1B visa is highly sought after, as it enables US companies, particularly in the technology sector, to employ foreign workers with specialized skills and knowledge in theoretical or technical fields, often recruiting individuals from countries like India and China.
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