Latest news with #Practical
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
H‑1B visa rules outdated, US tech execs warn; Indian techies vital to maintain global edge
US technology firms say their global edge is under threat due to restrictive immigration policies that block Indian talent from entering the country. Senior leaders warn that this is slowing innovation in fields like artificial intelligence, software engineering, and semiconductors. Survey highlights deep concern A new survey by Manifest Law of over 500 senior tech leaders shows deep concern about the state of US immigration policy — and its long‑term impact on the technology sector. According to the survey, 93% of tech leaders said high‑skilled immigrants are vital for US global competitiveness, and 35% called their role 'critically important' to their company's future. 'The roles most impacted are STEM‑related — software engineers, AI professionals, hardware specialists, and even startup founders,' said Nicole Gunara, principal immigration lawyer at Manifest Law. 'These aren't just workers. They are innovators. And companies are struggling to get them through the door,' she added. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Shortages in AI talent drive urgency The AI talent shortage is the second biggest challenge impacting skilled immigration, after global competition for workers, the survey said. Tech leaders warn that access to AI talent is vital for long‑term growth. According to McKinsey, firms that adopt AI and digital tools outperform others by as much as six times in shareholder returns. Without faster, more modern immigration policies, the US risks falling behind in critical industries. Live Events You Might Also Like: When can the US revoke your H‑1B visa — legally? Visa costs and delays rising sharply High government visa fees are the biggest barrier for firms trying to hire international staff, followed by delays and rising legal costs. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) increased the base H‑1B petition fee for large employers by 70%. The initial H‑1B registration cost rose from $10 to $215 for fiscal year 2025. According to Manifest Law, Indian professionals have been hit hardest — from 2022–2023, 72.3% of all H‑1B visas went to Indian nationals, and nearly half of all STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) applicants were from India. 'Indian nationals fill a massive part of the US STEM talent gap ,' said Gunara. 'The US simply doesn't have the domestic pipeline to keep up. At some point, policymakers will have to recognize that bringing in highly skilled immigrants is the fastest and most effective solution.' Support grows for targeted reforms The survey found strong support for targeted reforms. About 56% of leaders want an increased H‑1B cap, and 56% support a new visa for venture‑backed startups. Another 62% called for industry‑specific visa programmes, and 64% wanted clearer pathways from student visas to green cards. In total, 74% said the immigration process needs to be simpler, and 67% supported investing in better technology to modernize it. You Might Also Like: H-1B visa registrations drop 27% due to fee hike and policy changes 'We see firsthand how high‑skilled legal immigrants drive innovation in the tech sector — from founding startups to leading cutting‑edge projects,' said Gunara. 'Ensuring they have a clear and timely path to contribute isn't just good policy — it's good business.' Warning on long‑term impact Orn Bodvarsson, a senior economist and academic, warned that current policies could reduce the long‑term appeal of the US for Indian students and professionals. 'They are facing fewer opportunities, higher risks, and lower returns on education investments. Over time, that means reduced demand for US university admissions and job offers. The bottom line is short‑ and long‑term Indian immigration will fall,' he said. As the US aims to lead in next‑generation technologies, experts say its future depends not just on investment and infrastructure, but also on its ability to attract global talent. Without a more open and modern immigration process, it risks falling behind in AI, entrepreneurship, and other critical areas of growth. You Might Also Like: Is the H-1B visa lottery rigged against foreign skilled workers?
Business Upturn
17-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Roofing Expert Caitlin Sadwick of Exceptional Exteriors Roofing & Siding Shares Insights on Roofing Material Comparison in HelloNation Magazine
ROCHESTER, N.Y., June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — What are the practical differences between metal roofing and asphalt shingles for homeowners? That's the topic explored in Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: A Practical Comparison for Homeowners , a featured article in HelloNation Magazine written with insights from Caitlin Sadwick of Exceptional Exteriors Roofing & Siding in Rochester, New York. The article presents a clear, homeowner-focused guide to evaluating two of the most popular residential roofing materials. According to the article, asphalt shingles remain popular due to their low upfront cost and ease of installation. They typically last 15 to 30 years and come in a range of styles, making them suitable for many home designs. Metal roofing, on the other hand, offers a much longer lifespan—40 to 70 years—and is better suited for regions with extreme weather. It resists cracking, shrinking, and erosion, and can even improve energy efficiency by reflecting solar heat. Maintenance and aesthetic preferences also play a role. Asphalt roofs may need occasional shingle replacements and are more vulnerable to algae growth. Metal roofs require less frequent upkeep but may need insulation to reduce noise. Visually, metal offers a contemporary look, while shingles provide more traditional curb appeal. Sadwick notes that the best choice ultimately depends on a homeowner's budget, climate considerations, and long-term plans for the property. The article emphasizes that both options can be excellent, depending on specific needs, and encourages homeowners to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding. The full article, Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: A Practical Comparison for Homeowners , is available at Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: A Practical Comparison for Homeowners . About HelloNation HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative 'edvertising' approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities. Patrick McCabe [email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Indian students in US at risk of deportation over not declaring job status
Hyderabad: Several Indian students in the US were served notices to prove their employment status, but many have reportedly refrained from responding due to fear of deportation. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now These students admitted they were not currently engaged in any authorised employment, making them vulnerable to removal from the country. The notices, issued by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), require students to respond within strict timelines—typically 15 days—or risk immediate termination of their visa status. However, many students decided against responding. The trigger was the failure to report employment under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT programme, or exceeding the allowed unemployment window. Students on F-1 visas are permitted a total of 90 days of unemployment during regular OPT, and an additional 60 days for those under STEM extensions. Breaching this limit, or failing to update employment details in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), is considered a violation of visa rules. 'They asked me to submit a letter from my employer, proof of payroll, and an updated I-983 form within 15 days,' said a 26-year-old tech graduate, currently based in Texas. 'I panicked—I don't have a job. I've applied everywhere, but I haven't heard back. Now I don't know what to do.' Those who fail to comply may have their SEVIS records terminated, which would mean immediate loss of legal status and the initiation of deportation proceedings. For many students, the threat of removal is not just about immigration—it's financial survival. The average Indian student graduating from a US institution carries an education loan burden ranging between Rs 25 to Rs 45 lakhs. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With no job, no way to repay, and no visa security, the crisis is pushing some to remain in the country unlawfully. 'I don't want to become illegal, but going back means financial ruin,' said a graduate in data analytics from Atlanta. 'My father took out a loan against our house. If I leave now, we're done. How?' Some have refrained from responding to ICE altogether, fearing their confession of unemployment could speed up removal. 'It's a trap either way,' said a computer science student from Chicago. 'If I say I'm unemployed, they might deport me. If I stay silent, they'll still come after me. But at least I'll have time to figure something out.' Immigration consultants are advising affected students to warn that silence may worsen their case. 'Not responding can be interpreted as an admission of guilt or non-compliance,' said Ravi Lothumalla, an immigration consultant based in Dallas. 'The right way is to respond honestly and seek reinstatement if possible, but many students don't even know they have that option.'
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
H-1B cap registrations see sharp fall amid policy overhaul, fee hike and shifting goals
Hyderabad: The number of H-1B visa cap registrations for 2026 has dropped sharply, with fresh data released by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) showing only 3.58 lakh registrations during the latest cap season—a steep 26.9% fall from last year's 4.78 lakh. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The drop is even more drastic when compared to FY 2024, with registration numbers plunging by over 54%. Of the total entries this year, 120,141 were selected to move forward in the process. The H-1B visa programme, a cornerstone for Indian IT professionals and a key staffing channel for US tech firms, issues 85,000 visas annually, including a 20,000-quota for candidates holding US master's degrees. Several factors are being cited for this sharp decline—chief among them are recent policy changes, increased H-1B costs, and shifting career goals among international professionals. A major one is the USCIS's crackdown on duplicate entries and misuse of the system. "Based on evidence from the FY 2023 and FY 2024 H-1B cap seasons, we undertook extensive fraud investigations, denied and revoked petitions accordingly, and continue to make law enforcement referrals for criminal prosecution," the USCIS noted in an official statement on its website. "We are also reviewing the FY 2025 and FY 2026 data for any attempts to gain an unfair advantage through the beneficiary-centric selection process. " The agency added that it will take strict action where necessary, including petition denials, revocations, and criminal referrals. "We believe that the decreased filing rate for FY 2024 H-1B cap petitions and the decreased registration numbers for FY 2025 and FY 2026 indicate that these investigations, and the beneficiary-centric selection process, have been effective integrity measures," the statement read. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Beyond policy enforcement, the cost of registration has also become a major deterrent. The USCIS hiked the registration fee from a modest $10 (approx Rs 856) to$250 (approx Rs 21,000) this year—a change that significantly altered the risk-reward equation, especially for students and early-career professionals. "It's no longer a small gamble," said a software developer from Nagpur currently residing in Washington on OPT (Optional Practical Training). "When the fee was $10, people thought, why not try? But $250 is serious money, especially when you're not guaranteed a shot. I'm still unsure if I'll register next year—I've started saving up." In parallel, a noticeable shift in global preferences is emerging, with many applicants eyeing alternatives to the US. "Many of us are looking at Australia or Germany now," said Aaftab B, a postgraduate from Hyderabad, currently staying in Chicago. "Their immigration systems are more straightforward, and you feel more welcomed there. I am also considering UAE. The US feels uncertain—long wait times for green cards, H-1B dependency, job instability. It's just not worth the anxiety anymore." Experts believe these developments could significantly influence student migration trends, especially from India, which has historically been one of the largest source countries for international students in the US. "The 'American Dream' of immediate employment at a high salary with full sponsorship of an H-1B visa will elude most foreign students. It's not the late 90s and early 2000s anymore," said Orn Bodvarsson, an economist and senior academic. "As word continues to travel back to India that post-graduation labour market outcomes are not as strong as before, Indian student emigration to the USA will weaken."
Hans India
08-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Indian students turning to Oz as US tightens visa norms
Hyderabad: A growing number of Indian students aspiring to go abroad for higher studies are now choosing Australia over the United States (US) for their higher education, marking a significant shift in academic preferences of foreign-bound students. Education consultants attribute this trend to a combination of practical factors, including tightening of visa norms by the US and Canada. Growing uncertainty in the North American market is also playing a key role. Further, hassle-free visa policies, extended post-study work rights, lower tuition fees, quicker return on investment, and a safer, more affordable lifestyle in Australia, are turning the tide in Oz's favour. While the US has traditionally been the first choice for Indian students, they now say that visa uncertainties and limited work rights under the present Trump dispensation are pushing them to look elsewhere. In contrast, Australia's streamlined visa process and clear pathways to permanent residency are making it an increasingly attractive option. Students aspiring to go to the US have seen rising visa rejections, long delays, and uncertainty surrounding post-study work options, especially under the present dispensation. In contrast, those bound for Australia are seeing a relatively smoother visa process, access to world-renowned institutions, and attractive post-study work opportunities. 'Indian students are increasingly choosing Australia over the US due to several practical reasons. The US has seen rising visa rejections, long delays, and uncertainty surrounding post-study work options—especially under Trump. In contrast, Australia offers a smoother visa process, world-renowned institutions, and attractive post-study opportunities,' says Ritika Gupta, CEO of AAera Consultants Rathan Yarlagadda, CEO of Ascent Consulting Abroad Studies LLP, says 'Two of the most significant reasons are: the abundance of work opportunities during and after studies in Australia, and growing concerns over the possible removal of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the US, along with the current atmosphere of confusion and misinformation from the US government.' Australia's Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows international students to stay and work for 2 to 6 years after graduation, depending on their field and location of study. This is a major draw compared to the US OPT programme, which offers just 1 to 3 years of work authorization, often followed by the complex and competitive H-1B process. According to Dilip Kumar N, Australian Migration Agent at Future in Australia, 'The shift is clear. Australia offers open work rights, faster ROI (return on investment) due to lower tuition fees, and fewer immigration hurdles. It's safer, especially for female students, and recent policy updates—like reduced work visa requirements and new scholarship schemes—are making it even more accessible.' Cost is another critical factor. Australian universities offer relatively lower tuition fees and require lower living expenses compared to US institutions. Students can also work part-time, which helps them manage finances more effectively. Shailandra, Director and Founder of ProgeoN Overseas Education, highlighted the growing appeal: 'Australia's globally ranked universities, multicultural environment, and strong research and career prospects make it the ideal choice. Students find the experience both enriching and financially manageable.' Renu Pandey, Managing Director of SRH Global Edu, summed it up: 'Australia offers academic excellence, career growth, and long-term settlement opportunities in one package. It's a balanced and forward-looking choice for students'.
