Thousands of Indian H-4 Visa Holders Face Deportation Threat in the US
Washington, 6 March – (www.deccanlive.com): Many Indians who have been living in the US for years now face the risk of deportation. These individuals came to the US as minors on H-4 visas, which allow children of H-1B visa holders to stay in the country. However, as they turn 21, their legal status becomes uncertain.
According to US immigration laws, once they reach adulthood, they can no longer be considered dependents of their H-1B visa holder parents. If they fail to secure another visa status, they may be forced to leave the country.
Recently, the US deported around 500 Indians in three flights due to immigration violations. Now, a new issue is emerging as thousands of H-4 visa holders, who arrived as minors, may also face removal from the country.
Previously, H-4 visa holders turning 21 had a two-year grace period to change their visa status. However, recent policy changes have made their future uncertain. Many are now exploring alternative options, with some planning to move to Canada or the UK, where immigration policies are more flexible.
One major issue is the long backlog in employment-based Green Card applications in the US. This delay makes it difficult for new applicants to gain citizenship quickly. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced the registration period for H-1B visas, which will run from March 7 to March 24.
The H-1B visa is issued to non-immigrant workers hired by US companies for specialized jobs. However, only 65,000 H-1B visas are issued annually, with an additional 20,000 visas reserved for those with a US master’s degree. To prevent fraud, the US has tightened its policies and increased the H-1B registration fee to $215.
An estimated 1.34 lakh (134,000) Indian H-4 visa holders are about to turn 21, and their families do not have Green Cards, leaving them uncertain about their future in the US.
Thousands of Indian H-4 Visa Holders May Have to Leave the US
The US immigration system faces a massive backlog, increasing the likelihood that thousands of Indians may have to leave the country. Recently, a Texas court blocked work permits for new applicants, adding to the uncertainty.
Previously, a rule called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) allowed minors who arrived with their parents to get two extra years to apply for citizenship. However, this provision has now ended, leaving thousands of Indians with no choice but to find alternative options.
