Competitive Edge
Nov. 15, 2024, 2:19 a.m.
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Trump’s New Appointment Signals Challenges for Indian Tech Workers and H-1B Visa Seekers

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In a move that has raised concerns among foreign tech professionals and advocates of skilled immigration, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has named immigration hardliner Stephen Miller as White House Deputy Chief of Staff for policy. Known for his strict immigration stance, Miller has been a close aide to Trump, instrumental in shaping the restrictive immigration policies of Trump’s first administration, including the 2017 travel ban and the controversial family separation policy of 2018.

Addressing a crowd of nearly 19,500 at a recent rally in Madison Square Garden, Miller voiced his nationalist agenda, declaring that “America is for Americans and Americans only.” His emphasis on reducing both legal and illegal immigration has made waves, particularly regarding the H-1B visa program, a key gateway for skilled Indian professionals seeking work in the U.S. tech industry.

Miller’s Vision for the H-1B Program

Miller has long been a critic of the H-1B visa program, arguing that it displaces American workers and suppresses wages. During Trump’s first term, he championed the Cruz-Sessions bill, which aimed to significantly limit H-1B visa eligibility, proposing a ten-year work restriction for international graduates of U.S. universities. Now, as he returns to a powerful role within Trump’s administration, Miller’s influence could translate to further constraints on H-1B visa issuance.

Forbes recently reported that if the Biden administration fails to finalize a “modernizing” H-1B rule before leaving office, the incoming Trump team could rework the rule with its restrictive priorities. Under Trump’s previous term, H-1B denials surged, with the rejection rate rising from 6% in 2015 to over 20% in 2018 and 2019. Critics warn that a renewed Trump administration could further tighten visa criteria, especially for high-demand tech occupations.

The Impact on Indian Tech Workers

Indian professionals comprise the majority of H-1B visa recipients, many of whom are employed in the tech industry. Miller’s reappointment brings renewed fears of limitations on visa approvals, stricter definitions of “specialty occupation,” and increased denials that could leave many skilled professionals unable to work in the U.S.

Border Enforcement and Immigration Policy

In addition to Miller, Trump has appointed Tom Homan, former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as his “Border Czar.” Homan is expected to intensify immigration enforcement, focusing on deportations and border security. With Homan overseeing deportation policy and Miller advocating for restrictive legal immigration measures, the future for immigrant workers and their families in the U.S. looks increasingly uncertain.

Trump’s stance on immigration, particularly his opposition to skilled worker visas, diverges sharply from the economic consensus, which emphasizes that skilled immigrants contribute to economic growth and innovation. With an anticipated rise in visa denials and an emboldened effort to limit immigration, Indian tech professionals and H-1B hopefuls may face greater obstacles in the years ahead.



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