Challenges Faced by Indian Families on H-1B Visas in the US
Uncertainty for Indian Professionals in the US
Many Indian professionals residing in the United States on H-1B visas often bring their families with the hope of obtaining a Green Card for permanent residency. However, recent changes in immigration policies have introduced significant uncertainty, particularly affecting children of H-1B visa holders who are approaching the age of 21.
H-4 Visa Challenges for Families
Under the H-1B visa program, Indian workers can bring their spouses and children on H-4 dependent visas. Unfortunately, US immigration regulations stipulate that children lose their dependent status upon turning 21 unless they secure a different visa. The latest policy updates have intensified the dilemma for young adults raised in the US, forcing them to choose between leaving the country or finding another legal avenue to stay.
The Impact on Indian Families
This situation has left H-1B visa holders in a precarious position, as they may have to either send their children back to India alone or abandon their lucrative jobs to keep the family together.
Statistics on Indian Children at Risk
Previously, children who turned 21 were granted a two-year grace period to obtain a new visa. However, recent legal changes have eliminated this grace period, exacerbating their uncertainty. As of March 2023, it was estimated that around 134,000 Indian children could lose their H-4 visa status before their families are able to secure Green Cards, resulting in a loss of legal residency.
Long Wait Times for Green Cards
A recent ruling from a Texas court has complicated matters further by limiting new applications for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which previously provided temporary protection from deportation for undocumented immigrants, including those who aged out of their visa status. This uncertainty leaves many Indian-origin children in a precarious situation.
Personal Stories from Affected Students
A nursing student from California, who is about to lose her dependent visa in August, expressed her worries to a local media outlet: "I have lived here since I was six. My education, my friends, and my future are all in the US. But now I am being told that I might have to leave the only country I’ve ever known." Although she could switch to an F-1 student visa, this would classify her as an international student, resulting in higher tuition fees and the loss of federal financial aid and scholarships.
Financial Strain on Students
Another student from Texas voiced her frustration regarding the financial implications, stating: "Without state aid, I cannot afford tuition fees or work off-campus to support myself. It feels like I am being punished for something beyond my control. I now have to pay up to $45,000 (₹39.2 lakh) in tuition, while my friends pay just $10,000 (₹8.7 lakh)."
Conclusion
The recent changes in US immigration policies have posed significant challenges for Indian families on H-1B visas. With children at risk of losing their residency status and facing exorbitant tuition costs, many families are struggling to navigate these new hurdles. The ongoing uncertainty regarding Green Card processing times only adds to their worries, making this a critical issue for the Indian community in America.