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For students, there are two kinds of visas, F-1 and M-1. Those looking to study in the US full-time can apply for either of the visas.
The newly introduced H-1B visa rules offer relief to students in the US on F-1 visas (Representative/File Photo)
Donald Trump has now directed to revoke the birthright citizenship for children of non-permanent residents in the US. This means that the children born to those who are on temporary work visas will no longer be counted as citizens there.
The US administration said that the changes to the H-1B visa programme aim to ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency in recruiting foreign talent in the US. Indians constitute the largest group of H-1B visa holders. Of the 386,000 H-1B visas granted in 2023, as many as 72.3 per cent were awarded to Indians. So what are the options for Indian students now?
What Is H-1B Visa?
A non-immigrant visa, the H-1B visa enables US employers to temporarily employ foreign workers including Indians. To register, applicants must pay $10 to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application process begins in March every year. The duration of this visa is three years initially but it could be extended up to six years.
For Indian H-1B visa holders, all Dropbox submissions are processed through the US Consulate in Chennai, although applicants can drop their documents at visa application centres across India. However, securing these slots has proven to be a challenge.
The new process aims to streamline the renewal process for thousands of H-1B visa applicants, easing the burden of securing appointment slots at consulates.
Benefits For F-1 Visa Holders
For students, there are two kinds of visas, F-1 and M-1. Those looking to study in the US full-time can apply for either of the visas. The F-1 visa is for students who want to study English at an English language institute. The M-1 visa is for students who want to study vocational or non-academic subjects in the US.
There is often an opportunity to transition to an H-1B visa after the completion of studies. This transition can typically occur through the Optical Practical Training (OPT) programme, available to holders of an F-1 or M-1 visa. This allows foreign students to have the opportunity of working in the US for the next few years.
Students here are at an advantage. The newly introduced H-1B visa rules offer relief to students in the US on F-1 visas. During the H-1B visa application review, their F-1 visas will be automatically extended until April 1, preventing disruptions to their legal status and employment authorisation.
