Concerns Rise Among Indian H-1B Visa and Green Card Holders Under Trump Administration

US President Donald Trump's administration policies are causing significant concerns among F-1 student visa holders, H-1B visa holders, and even permanent residents with US green cards. Immigration law specialists report increased anxiety, leading to numerous cancelled international trips.

Increased Scrutiny at US Ports of Entry
Since the new Trump administration took office, there has been a significant increase in questioning of valid non-immigrant visa holders, including H-1B and F-1 visa holders, as well as green card holders at US ports of entry, according to Sukanya Raman of Davies & Associates, LLC.

Impact on Indian H-1B Visa Holders

Indian H-1B visa holders are avoiding overseas travel for professional conferences, family occasions, and urgent matters due to fears of re-entry bans, increased scrutiny, and extended visa processing times. Gautam Khurana of India Law Offices LLP notes a rise in H-1B holders not traveling out of the US.

Future Visa Regulations and Concerns

Experts predict stricter visa regulations and reduced visa issuance. Companies are hesitant to sponsor visas for the FY26 H-1B lottery, citing policy shifts and stricter travel regulations. Elderly Indian green card holders face increased questioning from US Customs and Border Protection officers.

Reassessment of Educational Investments
Indian students and families are reassessing their educational investments in the US, with the H-1B visa process becoming more stringent and jobs in IT sectors declining due to Gen AI, according to Adarsh Khandelwal of Collegify.