Trump’s Return Sparks Anxiety Among Indian H-1B Visa Holders

Indians, the largest beneficiaries of the H-1B visa program, receiving over 70% of the permits, are growing anxious as Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House. Concerns over potential restrictions have left many immigrants worried about their American dreams.

A 24-year-old Ph.D. student in New York, currently on an F-1 visa, shares her fears of leaving the U.S., even briefly, due to uncertainties around reentry and visa status changes. She worries that Trump's immigration policies may make transitioning to an H-1B visa nearly impossible after graduation. "In four years, the world could change entirely," she says, reflecting on the uncertainty.

During his first term, Trump attempted to impose stricter limits on the H-1B program, and his administration, including figures like Stephen Miller, is expected to pursue similar anti-immigration policies. Miller previously influenced decisions that increased H-1B denials and tightened regulations, significantly impacting high-skilled immigrants.

The tech industry, which heavily relies on H-1B workers, particularly from India, faces the biggest risks. Indians account for 75% of H-1B petitions, compared to just 12% by Chinese nationals, the second-largest group. Experts, like Gaurav Khanna, warn of the profound impact restrictive policies could have on the sector.

Nonprofit leader Shakeel Syed describes a "state of panic" among immigrants. “People are worried about approvals, deportations, and their future,” he notes. With Trump allies like Vivek Ramaswamy, who has vowed to "gut" the program, fears among visa holders are mounting.