Harvard University on Thursday (Jun 5) challenged US President Donald Trump’s ban on foreign students at the Ivy League school, adding it to the existing legal action against the Trump administration.&nbsp;The White House on Wednesday (Jun 4) announced that the entry of foreign students to begin a course at Harvard would be “suspended and limited” for six months. The proclamation added that the existing international students will risk their visas being terminated.&nbsp;“Harvard’s conduct has rendered it an unsuitable destination for foreign students and researchers,” the order said.&nbsp;Earlier, the university filed a lawsuit against the proclamation issued by the US president on Wednesday (Jun 4).&nbsp;“The Proclamation denies thousands of Harvard’s students the right to come to this country to pursue their education and follow their dreams, and it denies Harvard the right to teach them. Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard,” the school said in the filing on June 5.&nbsp;In an amended complaint filed, the university said that “this is not the Administration’s first attempt to sever Harvard from its international students”&nbsp;“(It) is part of a concerted and escalating campaign of retaliation by the government in clear retribution for Harvard’s exercising its First Amendment rights to reject the government’s demands to control Harvard's governance, curriculum, and the ‘ideology’ of its faculty and students,” it added.&nbsp;<h2>Trump bans visas for new foreign students</h2>&nbsp;Trump announced a visa ban for new foreign students who would enter America to study at Harvard.&nbsp;Trump’s action came days after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) banned Harvard's ability to enrol foreign students for the upcoming year. This order was blocked by the court.&nbsp;“I have determined that it is necessary to restrict the entry of foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States solely or principally to participate in a course of study at Harvard University or in an exchange visitor program hosted by Harvard University,” Trump said in a statement.&nbsp;The move came after the university refused to provide details of misconduct by foreign students, including those taking part in pro-Palestine protests and those with links to the Chinese Communist Party.&nbsp;Last month, the Trump administration also stopped $450 million in grants to the country’s oldest university after earlier freezing more than $2.2 billion in funding.

The White House on Wednesday (Jun 4) announced that the entry of foreign students to begin a course at Harvard would be “suspended and limited” for six months. 

Harvard University on Thursday (Jun 5) challenged US President Donald Trump’s ban on foreign students at the Ivy League school, adding it to the existing legal action against the Trump administration. The White House on Wednesday (Jun 4) announced that the entry of foreign students to begin a course at Harvard would be “suspended and limited” for six months. The proclamation added that the existing international students will risk their visas being terminated. “Harvard’s conduct has rendered it an unsuitable destination for foreign students and researchers,” the order said. Earlier, the university filed a lawsuit against the proclamation issued by the US president on Wednesday (Jun 4). “The Proclamation denies thousands of Harvard’s students the right to come to this country to pursue their education and follow their dreams, and it denies Harvard the right to teach them. Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard,” the school said in the filing on June 5. In an amended complaint filed, the university said that “this is not the Administration’s first attempt to sever Harvard from its international students” “(It) is part of a concerted and escalating campaign of retaliation by the government in clear retribution for Harvard’s exercising its First Amendment rights to reject the government’s demands to control Harvard's governance, curriculum, and the ‘ideology’ of its faculty and students,” it added. Trump bans visas for new foreign students Trump announced a visa ban for new foreign students who would enter America to study at Harvard. Trump’s action came days after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) banned Harvard's ability to enrol foreign students for the upcoming year. This order was blocked by the court. “I have determined that it is necessary to restrict the entry of foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States solely or principally to participate in a course of study at Harvard University or in an exchange visitor program hosted by Harvard University,” Trump said in a statement. The move came after the university refused to provide details of misconduct by foreign students, including those taking part in pro-Palestine protests and those with links to the Chinese Communist Party. Last month, the Trump administration also stopped $450 million in grants to the country’s oldest university after earlier freezing more than $2.2 billion in funding.

The White House on Wednesday (Jun 4) announced that the entry of foreign students to begin a course at Harvard would be “suspended and limited” for six months.&nbsp;

Harvard challenges Trump’s ban on foreign students, amends previous lawsuit

US President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into pardons granted by former President Joe Biden using an 'autopen'. During the final hours of his presidency, the latter signed pardons granting pardons to family members and death row inmates.&nbsp;Biden's act of clemency has surpassed many of his predecessors. In his 4-year tenure, the number was at 4,245 and which is higher than other US presidents. Franklin D. Roosevelt held office for 12 years, and he granted 3,796 pardons. And now what has come to light, along with the pardons, is the use of an autopen; the Trump administration is hinting at Biden's competency. On Monday (June 2), a senior official in the US Justice Department told staff that he was investigating pardons granted by the former president, and whether Mr Biden was 'competent' at the time.<h2>What is an autopen? &nbsp;</h2>An autopen is a machine that replicates the signature of an individual and is in use in government offices. It is typically used when one is required to sign a pile of documents.Not just initials, it even mimics the handwriting; the pen is fed with the signature and same reflects on paper. It could be looked at as a highly mechanised version of the sketching devices that you may have seen kids use with a stencil.The device is often called a robot pen.<h2>History of the pen in the US</h2>&nbsp;The device was in use even in the past, but to sign everything apart from bills. In May 2011, Barack scripted history when he signed a bill into law while he was away in Europe. The then president was in France attending the G8 summit. Before this, the document would be flown to the leader, signed and back. The use of an autopen was certainly a cost-effective way to function.&nbsp;Presidents have used autopens to sign books, mails, and other papers in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into pardons granted by former President Joe Biden using an 'autopen'. 

US President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into pardons granted by former President Joe Biden using an 'autopen'. During the final hours of his presidency, the latter signed pardons granting pardons to family members and death row inmates. Biden's act of clemency has surpassed many of his predecessors. In his 4-year tenure, the number was at 4,245 and which is higher than other US presidents. Franklin D. Roosevelt held office for 12 years, and he granted 3,796 pardons. And now what has come to light, along with the pardons, is the use of an autopen; the Trump administration is hinting at Biden's competency. On Monday (June 2), a senior official in the US Justice Department told staff that he was investigating pardons granted by the former president, and whether Mr Biden was 'competent' at the time. What is an autopen? An autopen is a machine that replicates the signature of an individual and is in use in government offices. It is typically used when one is required to sign a pile of documents. Not just initials, it even mimics the handwriting; the pen is fed with the signature and same reflects on paper. It could be looked at as a highly mechanised version of the sketching devices that you may have seen kids use with a stencil. The device is often called a robot pen. History of the pen in the US The device was in use even in the past, but to sign everything apart from bills. In May 2011, Barack scripted history when he signed a bill into law while he was away in Europe. The then president was in France attending the G8 summit. Before this, the document would be flown to the leader, signed and back. The use of an autopen was certainly a cost-effective way to function. Presidents have used autopens to sign books, mails, and other papers in the past.

US President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into pardons granted by former President Joe Biden using an 'autopen'.&nbsp;

Trump orders investigation on pardons signed by Biden using autopen. What is this device?

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday (June 4) and banned 12 countries from entering the United States. He said the ban was necessary to protect the country from "foreign terrorists" and other security threats.&nbsp;These are the countries that have been affected by the decision:&nbsp;<ol><li>Afghanistan</li><li>Myanmar</li><li>Chad</li><li>Congo</li><li>Equatorial Guinea</li><li>Eritrea</li><li>Haiti</li><li>Iran</li><li>Libya</li><li>Somalia</li><li>Sudan</li><li>Yemen</li></ol>Moreover, the Trump administration has also imposed partial restrictions on people from seven other countries.&nbsp;Here's the list:&nbsp;<ol><li>Burundi</li><li>Cuba</li><li>Laos</li><li>Sierra Leone</li><li>Togo</li><li>Turkmenistan</li><li>Venezuela</li></ol>'We will not allow...'&nbsp;Donald Trump took to the social media platform X and wrote, "We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm."&nbsp; The US president added that the list could be revised and that new countries could also be added to it.&nbsp;When will the ban come into effect?&nbsp;Trump's ban and restrictions will be effective from June 9, 2025, at 04:01 GMT, as reported by Reuters.&nbsp;The effect of the full ban on 12 countries&nbsp;As per the Trump administration, there will be a complete suspension of entry of all nationals irrespective of their visa type.&nbsp;But, the lawful permanent residents, existing visa holders, specific visa categories, and those serving US national interests, would be treated as an exception.&nbsp;As per a press release by the White House, students, tourists, workers, and refugees would not be allowed to enter the US.&nbsp; The effect of partial restrictions on 7 countries&nbsp;In this category, people with specific visa types will be barred.&nbsp;Visa types that will not be allowed: immigrant visas and nonimmigrant B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), B-1/B-2, F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange) visas.&nbsp;But, other categories of visas like H-1B, diplomatic, etc, will be allowed.&nbsp;Trump's previous bans on entering the US&nbsp;During his first term in the White House, Trump imposed a ban on travelers from seven majority-Muslim nations. The policy was upheld by the US apex court in 2018.&nbsp;In 2021, former US president Joe Biden repealed the ban in 2021, calling it "a stain on our national conscience."

'Very high risk to US': Trump bans US entry for people from 12 countries, imposes restrictions on 7 | Check details

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday (June 4) and banned 12 countries from entering the United States. He said the ban was necessary to protect the country from "foreign terrorists" and other security threats. These are the countries that have been affected by the decision: Afghanistan Myanmar Chad Congo Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Haiti Iran Libya Somalia Sudan Yemen Moreover, the Trump administration has also imposed partial restrictions on people from seven other countries. Here's the list: Burundi Cuba Laos Sierra Leone Togo Turkmenistan Venezuela 'We will not allow...' Donald Trump took to the social media platform X and wrote, "We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm." The US president added that the list could be revised and that new countries could also be added to it. When will the ban come into effect? Trump's ban and restrictions will be effective from June 9, 2025, at 04:01 GMT, as reported by Reuters. The effect of the full ban on 12 countries As per the Trump administration, there will be a complete suspension of entry of all nationals irrespective of their visa type. But, the lawful permanent residents, existing visa holders, specific visa categories, and those serving US national interests, would be treated as an exception. As per a press release by the White House, students, tourists, workers, and refugees would not be allowed to enter the US. The effect of partial restrictions on 7 countries In this category, people with specific visa types will be barred. Visa types that will not be allowed: immigrant visas and nonimmigrant B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), B-1/B-2, F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange) visas. But, other categories of visas like H-1B, diplomatic, etc, will be allowed. Trump's previous bans on entering the US During his first term in the White House, Trump imposed a ban on travelers from seven majority-Muslim nations. The policy was upheld by the US apex court in 2018. In 2021, former US president Joe Biden repealed the ban in 2021, calling it "a stain on our national conscience."

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday (June 4) and banned 12 countries from entering the United States. Trump also imposed partial restrictions on people from seven other countries. The ban and restrictions will be effective from June 9, 2025, at 04:01 GMT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A United States Department of Homeland Security task force has been created to use data analytic tools to search through the social media histories of around 1.5 million international students studying in the US to look for potential grounds for revoking their visas, reported NBC News.
The officials will also be looking for any charges or criminal convictions of the student visa holders, the report citing three sources familiar with the matter added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treat-this-like-a-business-ice-head-wants-deportations-of-immigrants-to-be-like-amazon-prime-but-with-human-beings-8944571">'Treat this like a business': ICE head wants deportations of immigrants to be like 'Amazon Prime, but with human beings'</a>
However, the data analytics tools being used to scour social media were enhanced during the Biden administration, a former Biden administration DHS official told NBC News.
&ldquo;We were not targeting political activity or speech. We would only review them if they were inciting violence,&rdquo; the official said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-terminates-legal-status-for-500000-immigrants-8879186">Trump administration terminates legal status for 500,000 immigrants</a>
But to use them to search social media of nonviolent students is different from what they were intended to be used for by the previous administration, the official said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-green-cards-red-signals-new-trump-card-against-immigrants-involves-legal-stalking-that-violates-us-law-8865355">White House, green cards, red signals: New Trump card against immigrants involves legal stalking that violates US law</a>
<h2>Process of how visas are revoked</h2>
The tools used by the DHS task force are run by Customs and Border Protection&rsquo;s National Targeting Center and National Vetting Center, which ensure no potential security threats enter the US, the source explained. Any potential red flags are notified to the Citizenship and Immigration Services, which then asks the State Department to determine whether the student&rsquo;s visa should be revoked.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-visa-us-green-card-us-to-scan-social-media-for-visa-green-card-uscis-proposes-new-rule-check-details-8947825">US to scan social media for visa, green card? USCIS proposes new rule. Check Details</a>
If the State Department decides the visa of student is to be revoked, the task force informs Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in local field offices to arrest and deport the student.
Last month, nearly 300 visas of international students were revoked, according to The New York Times.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | he data analytics tools being used to scour social media were enhanced during the Biden administration, a former Biden administration DHS official told NBC News.

A United States Department of Homeland Security task force has been created to use data analytic tools to search through the social media histories of around 1.5 million international students studying in the US to look for potential grounds for revoking their visas, reported NBC News. The officials will also be looking for any charges or criminal convictions of the student visa holders, the report citing three sources familiar with the matter added. Also read | 'Treat this like a business': ICE head wants deportations of immigrants to be like 'Amazon Prime, but with human beings' However, the data analytics tools being used to scour social media were enhanced during the Biden administration, a former Biden administration DHS official told NBC News. “We were not targeting political activity or speech. We would only review them if they were inciting violence,” the official said. Also read | Trump administration terminates legal status for 500,000 immigrants But to use them to search social media of nonviolent students is different from what they were intended to be used for by the previous administration, the official said. Also read | White House, green cards, red signals: New Trump card against immigrants involves legal stalking that violates US law Process of how visas are revoked The tools used by the DHS task force are run by Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center and National Vetting Center, which ensure no potential security threats enter the US, the source explained. Any potential red flags are notified to the Citizenship and Immigration Services, which then asks the State Department to determine whether the student’s visa should be revoked. Also read | US to scan social media for visa, green card? USCIS proposes new rule. Check Details If the State Department decides the visa of student is to be revoked, the task force informs Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in local field offices to arrest and deport the student. Last month, nearly 300 visas of international students were revoked, according to The New York Times. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump misusing Biden-era software? DHS scour social media histories of foreign students to revoke visas

The US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. The office assured that the matter is under control, as they have identified those responsible for the action.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/h1b-visas-us-far-right-goes-on-anti-india-drivel-over-trumps-pick-sriram-musk-wades-in-8566899">H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram;&nbsp;Musk&nbsp;wades&nbsp;in</a>
In a statement posted on X, the US Embassy India wrote, "Consular Team India is canceling about 2,000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers who violate our scheduling policies."
It further emphasised, "Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are cancelling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts' scheduling privileges. We will continue our anti-fraud efforts. We have zero tolerance for fraud."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8rard1r-iwr1sgjo-1x91tucd">
Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots.&nbsp; We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies. <a href="https://t.co/ypakf99eCo">pic.twitter.com/ypakf99eCo</a>
&mdash; U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia/status/1904843783201583522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Vigilant netizens suggested corrective measures to avoid such episodes in the future. Gumireddy Srikanth wrote, "Much needed and can you put advisory on certain websites which are publicly providing slot booking service for money."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poll-reveals-donald-trump-is-not-the-most-popular-us-politician-but-this-senator-is-8896780">Donald Trump is not the most popular US politician, but THIS senator is, poll reveals</a>
People have suffered heavily due to the long wait for US visa, delays in appointment confirmation have now been accepted as a norm. Many are even prepared to wait for months. Be it tourism, business or even student visas, people have begun factoring in even the wait period. People have begun considering neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kuwait, as their wait for an international US visa application is less than a week. While Bangkok, Thailand, has a 25-day wait, still much less than that in India, where it exceeds 400 days, which is good over a year.

US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. World

The US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. The office assured that the matter is under control, as they have identified those responsible for the action. Also read: H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram; Musk wades in In a statement posted on X, the US Embassy India wrote, "Consular Team India is canceling about 2,000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers who violate our scheduling policies." It further emphasised, "Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are cancelling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts' scheduling privileges. We will continue our anti-fraud efforts. We have zero tolerance for fraud." Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies. pic.twitter.com/ypakf99eCo — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) March 26, 2025 Vigilant netizens suggested corrective measures to avoid such episodes in the future. Gumireddy Srikanth wrote, "Much needed and can you put advisory on certain websites which are publicly providing slot booking service for money." Also read: Donald Trump is not the most popular US politician, but THIS senator is, poll reveals People have suffered heavily due to the long wait for US visa, delays in appointment confirmation have now been accepted as a norm. Many are even prepared to wait for months. Be it tourism, business or even student visas, people have begun factoring in even the wait period. People have begun considering neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kuwait, as their wait for an international US visa application is less than a week. While Bangkok, Thailand, has a 25-day wait, still much less than that in India, where it exceeds 400 days, which is good over a year.

Confirmed by 'bots': US Embassy in India cancels 2,000 visa appointments

Amid US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s crackdown against immigration and tariffs, a recent analysis of State Department data revealed that US F-1 visa denials have soared high at 41 per cent in the last fiscal year. According to The Indian Express, the rejection rate has nearly doubled to that of the 2014 fiscal year.
During the fiscal year from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, the US received 679,000 F-1 visa applications, out of which 279,000 were denied, bringing the rejection rate to 41 per cent. While in 2022-23, the US rejected 253,00 (36 per cent) out of 699,000 applications.
While the US State Department has not shared country-specific refusal rates for F-1 visas, earlier reports highlighted that student visas issued to Indian applicants significantly dropped by 38 per cent in the first nine months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023.
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The data also showed that the percentage of student visa rejections increased despite a decline in the number of applications over the last decade. The number of applications peaked in 2014-15 with 856,000 applications, however, it soon saw a steady decline with the lowest hitting 162,000 applications during the COVID year of 2019-20.&nbsp;
Although the applications have increased post-COVID, there was a 3 per cent dip in 2023-24 than in the previous year. In years 2023-24, 401,000 F-1 visas were issued, down from the previous year&rsquo;s 445,000.
F-1 visa, which accounts for more than 90 per cent of US student visas, is a non-immigrant category for students attending US academic institutions. The non-vocational and non-academic programs are covered under the M-1 visa.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-russia-talks-on-ukraine-peace-deal-underway-in-saudi-arabia-trump-brokered-ceasefire-in-sight-8885431">US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight?</a>
<h2>Department spokesperson on high rejection rates</h2>
On the rising rejection rate of F-1 visas, a Department of State spokesperson told The Indian Express, &ldquo;All visa adjudications are adjudicated on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and applicable federal regulations.&rdquo;
The spokesperson also highlighted a change in methodology for calculating visa data from FY2019 onwards, adding that &ldquo;previous methodology was based on a count of workload actions, which were not linked by application.&rdquo;
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&ldquo;The new methodology more accurately reflects final outcomes from the visa application process during a specified reporting period. The new methodology follows visa applications, including updates to their status (i.e., issued or refused), which could change as the fiscal year progresses, or result in slight changes in data for earlier years. Therefore, beginning with FY 2020, individual monthly issuance reports should not be aggregated, as this will not provide an accurate issuance total for the fiscal year to date,&rdquo; the spokesperson said, as cited by The Indian Express.
In 2023, more than 100,000 Indian students were issued the US visa. However, that number dipped to about 64,008 for the first nine months of 2024.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India news | During the fiscal year from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, the US received 679,000 F-1 visa applications, out of which 279,000 were denied, bringing the rejection rate to 41 per cent.

Amid US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration and tariffs, a recent analysis of State Department data revealed that US F-1 visa denials have soared high at 41 per cent in the last fiscal year. According to The Indian Express, the rejection rate has nearly doubled to that of the 2014 fiscal year. During the fiscal year from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, the US received 679,000 F-1 visa applications, out of which 279,000 were denied, bringing the rejection rate to 41 per cent. While in 2022-23, the US rejected 253,00 (36 per cent) out of 699,000 applications. While the US State Department has not shared country-specific refusal rates for F-1 visas, earlier reports highlighted that student visas issued to Indian applicants significantly dropped by 38 per cent in the first nine months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023. Also read | US investigates nearly 1.3 million Ford F-150 trucks for unexpected gear shift issue The data also showed that the percentage of student visa rejections increased despite a decline in the number of applications over the last decade. The number of applications peaked in 2014-15 with 856,000 applications, however, it soon saw a steady decline with the lowest hitting 162,000 applications during the COVID year of 2019-20. Although the applications have increased post-COVID, there was a 3 per cent dip in 2023-24 than in the previous year. In years 2023-24, 401,000 F-1 visas were issued, down from the previous year’s 445,000. F-1 visa, which accounts for more than 90 per cent of US student visas, is a non-immigrant category for students attending US academic institutions. The non-vocational and non-academic programs are covered under the M-1 visa. Also read | US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight? Department spokesperson on high rejection rates On the rising rejection rate of F-1 visas, a Department of State spokesperson told The Indian Express, “All visa adjudications are adjudicated on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and applicable federal regulations.” The spokesperson also highlighted a change in methodology for calculating visa data from FY2019 onwards, adding that “previous methodology was based on a count of workload actions, which were not linked by application.” Also read | Nippon steel confirms ongoing US steel acquisition talks with Washington “The new methodology more accurately reflects final outcomes from the visa application process during a specified reporting period. The new methodology follows visa applications, including updates to their status (i.e., issued or refused), which could change as the fiscal year progresses, or result in slight changes in data for earlier years. Therefore, beginning with FY 2020, individual monthly issuance reports should not be aggregated, as this will not provide an accurate issuance total for the fiscal year to date,” the spokesperson said, as cited by The Indian Express. In 2023, more than 100,000 Indian students were issued the US visa. However, that number dipped to about 64,008 for the first nine months of 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Getting a US student visa just got harder: F-1 rejections hit 10-year high with 40% of applicants denied

The United States embassy on Friday (Feb 28) granted an emergency visa to the family of Indian student Neelam Shinde, who suffered a road accident in California and is currently in a coma.&nbsp;
Neelam Shinde's father Tanhaji Shinde said that the family will leave for the US on Saturday (March 1).&nbsp;
This comes after India's External Affairs Ministry took the matter in its hands after Shinde's family appealed for the visa.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neelam-shinde-case-mea-takes-up-the-matter-seeks-quick-visa-for-family-of-indian-student-in-us-hospital-8761284">Neelam Shinde case: MEA takes up the matter, seeks quick visa for family of Indian student in US hospital</a>
The family got a call from the US Embassy in Mumbai to appear for a visa interview on Friday (Feb 28).&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Neelam Shinde and what happened?</h2>
Neelam, who lived in Mumbai and went to the US four years back was hit by a four-wheeler on February 14 in California after which she was admitted to UC Davis Health Hospital where she underwent brain surgery. Since then, she has been in a coma.&nbsp;
Shinde, a postgraduate student at California State University, was hit from behind by the vehicle and suffered injuries to both arms and legs. She also suffered injuries to her head, hand and chest.&nbsp;
The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco has been providing assistance to them and said that they are in constant touch with Shinde's family.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com">MEA takes up takes up with US visa issue of family of Indian student Neelam Shinde</a>
<h2>Who all got the visa?</h2>
Neelam's father and cousin were granted the visa, after which they expressed gratitude to the central and state governments and NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule for their assistance.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have got the Visa, and we will be going (to the US) tomorrow. Both the Maharashtra and Central governments heard us, and we got the Visa&hellip; When CM Devendra Fadnavis came to know about the incident, he helped us get the Visa. Everyone, including Supriya Sule, helped us," said Neelam's father.
&ldquo;A speeding car hit her on 14th (February). We received a call on February 16 about the accident&hellip; We have finally got the Visa. The politicians, including CM Devendra Fadnavis, helped us get the Visa. I will accompany Neelam&rsquo;s father to the US, and we will be going tomorrow," Gaurav Kadam, Neelam's cousin said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/policy-to-execute-immigration-laws-against-removable-aliens-us-embassy-on-deportation-of-indian-immigrants-8696201">'Policy to execute immigration laws against removable aliens': US Embassy defends deportation of Indians</a>
<h2>Investigation continues&nbsp;</h2>
The US police officials have arrested a man who hit Neelam Shinde with his car in San Francisco, California. The accused fled the scene after the incident, leaving her behind, NDTV reported.&nbsp;
The Sacramento police department said the 58-year-old accused, Lawrence Gallows, had been arrested after his vehicle crashed into Shinde on Fair Oaks Boulevard.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/illegal-migration-is-not-worth-the-risk-us-embassy-sounds-alarm-amid-reports-of-deporting-indians-8689708">'Illegal migration is not worth the risk,' US embassy sounds alarm amid reports of deporting Indians</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India news: This comes after the India's External Affairs Ministry took the matter in their hands after Shinde's family appealed for the visa.

The United States embassy on Friday (Feb 28) granted an emergency visa to the family of Indian student Neelam Shinde, who suffered a road accident in California and is currently in a coma. Neelam Shinde's father Tanhaji Shinde said that the family will leave for the US on Saturday (March 1). This comes after India's External Affairs Ministry took the matter in its hands after Shinde's family appealed for the visa. Also read: Neelam Shinde case: MEA takes up the matter, seeks quick visa for family of Indian student in US hospital The family got a call from the US Embassy in Mumbai to appear for a visa interview on Friday (Feb 28). Who is Neelam Shinde and what happened? Neelam, who lived in Mumbai and went to the US four years back was hit by a four-wheeler on February 14 in California after which she was admitted to UC Davis Health Hospital where she underwent brain surgery. Since then, she has been in a coma. Shinde, a postgraduate student at California State University, was hit from behind by the vehicle and suffered injuries to both arms and legs. She also suffered injuries to her head, hand and chest. The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco has been providing assistance to them and said that they are in constant touch with Shinde's family. Also read: MEA takes up takes up with US visa issue of family of Indian student Neelam Shinde Who all got the visa? Neelam's father and cousin were granted the visa, after which they expressed gratitude to the central and state governments and NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule for their assistance. “We have got the Visa, and we will be going (to the US) tomorrow. Both the Maharashtra and Central governments heard us, and we got the Visa… When CM Devendra Fadnavis came to know about the incident, he helped us get the Visa. Everyone, including Supriya Sule, helped us," said Neelam's father. “A speeding car hit her on 14th (February). We received a call on February 16 about the accident… We have finally got the Visa. The politicians, including CM Devendra Fadnavis, helped us get the Visa. I will accompany Neelam’s father to the US, and we will be going tomorrow," Gaurav Kadam, Neelam's cousin said. Also read: 'Policy to execute immigration laws against removable aliens': US Embassy defends deportation of Indians Investigation continues The US police officials have arrested a man who hit Neelam Shinde with his car in San Francisco, California. The accused fled the scene after the incident, leaving her behind, NDTV reported. The Sacramento police department said the 58-year-old accused, Lawrence Gallows, had been arrested after his vehicle crashed into Shinde on Fair Oaks Boulevard. Also read: 'Illegal migration is not worth the risk,' US embassy sounds alarm amid reports of deporting Indians (With inputs from agencies)

US embassy grants visa to family of comatose Indian student Neelam Shinde, father to leave tomorrow

Prince Harry's US residency is under scrutiny, as his visa records will be reviewed in a court hearing on February 5. Watch this report for more details!

Prince Harry's immigration status sparks controversy

Prince Harry faces scrutiny over US visa

The US Mission to India in a statement released on Monday (September 29) said that the US has "opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travellers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students."

"The recently released new slots will help hundreds of thousands of Indian applicants take timely interviews, facilitating travel, which is the backbone of the people-to-people ties that underpin the US-India relationship," the statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-working-like-hell-biden-on-avoiding-all-out-war-in-middle-east-after-israeli-strikes-763056">'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes</a>

The announcement comes days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited United States and met President Joe Biden on the sidelines of Quad Summit and 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

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The U.S. Mission to India has opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travelers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students. <a href="https://t.co/DnPYNNkONN">pic.twitter.com/DnPYNNkONN</a>
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“Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to improve and expedite the visa process and I’m proud to say that we have delivered on that promise. Our consular teams at the embassy and four consulates work tirelessly to ensure that we meet the surging&nbsp;demand,” a statement from US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, read.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gdp-measured-in-radicalisation-indias-jaishankar-takes-a-dig-at-pakistan-in-unga-address-762848">‘GDP measured in radicalisation,’ India’s Jaishankar takes a dig at Pakistan in UNGA address</a>

"The US Mission to India has already surpassed one million nonimmigrant visa applications for the second consecutive year. &nbsp;During our student visa season this summer, we continued to process record numbers, and all first-time student applicants were able to obtain an appointment at one of our five consular sections around India," a post shared by the US Embassy in India said.

As per the statement from the US Mission, in 2024 so far, over 1.2 million Indians have travelled to the United States, marking a 35% rise compared to the same time frame in 2023. Currently, at least six million Indians hold non-immigrant visas to visit the US, and every day, the US Mission is issuing thousands more, the statement added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Mission to India in a statement released on Monday (September 29) said that the US has "opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travellers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students.

The US Mission to India in a statement released on Monday (September 29) said that the US has "opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travellers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students." "The recently released new slots will help hundreds of thousands of Indian applicants take timely interviews, facilitating travel, which is the backbone of the people-to-people ties that underpin the US-India relationship," the statement added. Also read: 'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes The announcement comes days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited United States and met President Joe Biden on the sidelines of Quad Summit and 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York. The U.S. Mission to India has opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travelers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students. pic.twitter.com/DnPYNNkONN — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) September 30, 2024 × “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to improve and expedite the visa process and I’m proud to say that we have delivered on that promise. Our consular teams at the embassy and four consulates work tirelessly to ensure that we meet the surging demand,” a statement from US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, read. Also read: ‘GDP measured in radicalisation,’ India’s Jaishankar takes a dig at Pakistan in UNGA address "The US Mission to India has already surpassed one million nonimmigrant visa applications for the second consecutive year.  During our student visa season this summer, we continued to process record numbers, and all first-time student applicants were able to obtain an appointment at one of our five consular sections around India," a post shared by the US Embassy in India said. As per the statement from the US Mission, in 2024 so far, over 1.2 million Indians have travelled to the United States, marking a 35% rise compared to the same time frame in 2023. Currently, at least six million Indians hold non-immigrant visas to visit the US, and every day, the US Mission is issuing thousands more, the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

US opens 250,000 more visa appointments for Indian tourists, students after PM Modi's visit

Vishwa Nath Jha, the&nbsp;founder and CEO of&nbsp;Saarthi AI&nbsp;claims&nbsp;that his passport containing an American&nbsp;visa has been stolen by an ex-employee after&nbsp;the mass layoff conducted last year. This comes amid&nbsp;allegations that the company has withheld the salaries of several employees since March 2023.&nbsp;

Jha told the news agency PTI that the company had been forced to lay off several employees to become profitable. He said&nbsp;investor pressure was the main reason behind the mass layoffs. Now, the CEO claims that his passport was stolen by a former employee and it had this visa to the United States.&nbsp;

Speaking to the website Entrackr he claimed that a senior employee stole his passport, making it difficult for him to travel abroad and raise funds for the already troubled firm. Jha said, “While I managed to reissue a new passport, I am yet to get the US visa again. It’s a long queue.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/money-wise-how-can-indian-market-investors-be-saved-from-sudden-crises-like-hindenburg-adani-case-750619">Money-Wise: How can Indian market investors be saved from sudden crises like Hindenburg-Adani case?</a>

He also rejected the allegations against the company and said no salaries have been withheld calling it false claims to defame the company. Jha said, “We’re planning to fill key positions as it negotiates deals [business] with several banks and NBFCs.”

Last year in September, Saarthi AI reportedly conducted a mass layoff which reduced the company’s workforce to 40 employees. A report by Entrackr citing several employees said they hadn’t received their pending salaries.&nbsp;

A former employee told the website: “The firm has been holding salaries of more than 50 employees for over a year now and even didn’t reply to legal notices. ​​The founder has been unresponsive and even mentioned that he doesn’t owe us any explanation on multiple occasions.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mars-to-acquire-pringles-maker-kellanova-for-nearly-36-bn-750149">Mars to acquire Pringles maker Kellanova for nearly $36 billion</a>

The company’s CEO accepted that they are not depositing the TDS of employees for the last two fiscal years.

Jha said, “The startup is still not generating surplus cash to clear long-standing dues. We have been transparent in our communications with the concerned ex-team members. We are working hard to become operationally cash flow positive by Q2 of 2024 to sustain company operations and support our current team members. Additionally, Saarthi.ai is actively in talks with investors to raise fresh capital to address outstanding debts and liabilities.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Vishwa Nath Jha, the founder and CEO of Saarthi AI claims that his passport containing an American visa has been stolen by an ex-employee after the mass layoff conducted last year.

Vishwa Nath Jha, the founder and CEO of Saarthi AI claims that his passport containing an American visa has been stolen by an ex-employee after the mass layoff conducted last year. This comes amid allegations that the company has withheld the salaries of several employees since March 2023. Jha told the news agency PTI that the company had been forced to lay off several employees to become profitable. He said investor pressure was the main reason behind the mass layoffs. Now, the CEO claims that his passport was stolen by a former employee and it had this visa to the United States. Speaking to the website Entrackr he claimed that a senior employee stole his passport, making it difficult for him to travel abroad and raise funds for the already troubled firm. Jha said, “While I managed to reissue a new passport, I am yet to get the US visa again. It’s a long queue.” Also Read | Money-Wise: How can Indian market investors be saved from sudden crises like Hindenburg-Adani case? He also rejected the allegations against the company and said no salaries have been withheld calling it false claims to defame the company. Jha said, “We’re planning to fill key positions as it negotiates deals [business] with several banks and NBFCs.” Last year in September, Saarthi AI reportedly conducted a mass layoff which reduced the company’s workforce to 40 employees. A report by Entrackr citing several employees said they hadn’t received their pending salaries. A former employee told the website: “The firm has been holding salaries of more than 50 employees for over a year now and even didn’t reply to legal notices. The founder has been unresponsive and even mentioned that he doesn’t owe us any explanation on multiple occasions.” Also Read | Mars to acquire Pringles maker Kellanova for nearly $36 billion The company’s CEO accepted that they are not depositing the TDS of employees for the last two fiscal years. Jha said, “The startup is still not generating surplus cash to clear long-standing dues. We have been transparent in our communications with the concerned ex-team members. We are working hard to become operationally cash flow positive by Q2 of 2024 to sustain company operations and support our current team members. Additionally, Saarthi.ai is actively in talks with investors to raise fresh capital to address outstanding debts and liabilities.” (With inputs from agencies)

CEO of Saarthi AI claims ex-employee stole his passport with US visa

Arun Yogiraj, the celebrated Indian sculptor known for carving the Ram Lalla idol installed at the newly constructed grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has been denied a US visa, it emerged on Wednesday (August 14).

Yogiraj was scheduled to attend the 12th AKKA World Kannada Conference (WKC 2024) in Virginia, scheduled to be held between&nbsp;August 30 and&nbsp;September 1.

Yogiraj had received a formal invitation to the conference. The invitation letter praised his work, and stated:&nbsp;"Your remarkable contributions to the field of sculpture have caught our attention, and we believe that your artistic vision would greatly enrich our conference. Your work embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation, qualities that align perfectly with the objectives of our event."

Yogiraj’s family expressed&nbsp;surprise at the visa denial by the US authorities, as his wife, Vijeta, had previously travelled to the US without any issues. The family told media publications that the sole purpose of their trip was to attend the conference, after which they planned to return to India.

"I don’t know any reasons why it was denied, but we have submitted all the documents related to the visa," Yogiraj said.

Yogiraj's artistic journey began at a young age as he was&nbsp;inspired by his father and grandfather, both of whom were renowned sculptors.

Also watch |&nbsp;Arun Yogiraj speaks about inspiration behind idol of Lord Ram

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After a brief stint in the corporate world, he returned to his passion for sculpting in 2008. In addition to the Ram Lalla idol, his notable works include a 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose near India Gate, a 12-foot sculpture of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, and a 21-foot Hanuman statue in Mysore.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-lallas-eyes-were-sculpted-by-arun-yogiraj-in-ayodhya-in-just-20-minutes-685014">Ram Lalla's eyes were sculpted in just 20 minutes, Arun Yogiraj tells WION</a>

The AKKA World Kannada Conference is a biennial event that brings together the Kannada-speaking diaspora from North America and around the world. It aims to celebrate the community's achievements while preserving the Kannada language and culture for future generations. Previous conferences have been held in major cities such as Houston, Washington D.C., and Dallas.

Arun Yogiraj, the celebrated Indian sculptor known for carving the Ram Lalla idol installed at the newly constructed grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has been denied a US visa, it emerged on Wednesday (August 14).

Arun Yogiraj, the celebrated Indian sculptor known for carving the Ram Lalla idol installed at the newly constructed grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has been denied a US visa, it emerged on Wednesday (August 14). Yogiraj was scheduled to attend the 12th AKKA World Kannada Conference (WKC 2024) in Virginia, scheduled to be held between August 30 and September 1. Yogiraj had received a formal invitation to the conference. The invitation letter praised his work, and stated: "Your remarkable contributions to the field of sculpture have caught our attention, and we believe that your artistic vision would greatly enrich our conference. Your work embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation, qualities that align perfectly with the objectives of our event." Yogiraj’s family expressed surprise at the visa denial by the US authorities, as his wife, Vijeta, had previously travelled to the US without any issues. The family told media publications that the sole purpose of their trip was to attend the conference, after which they planned to return to India. "I don’t know any reasons why it was denied, but we have submitted all the documents related to the visa," Yogiraj said. Yogiraj's artistic journey began at a young age as he was inspired by his father and grandfather, both of whom were renowned sculptors. Also watch | Arun Yogiraj speaks about inspiration behind idol of Lord Ram × After a brief stint in the corporate world, he returned to his passion for sculpting in 2008. In addition to the Ram Lalla idol, his notable works include a 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose near India Gate, a 12-foot sculpture of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, and a 21-foot Hanuman statue in Mysore. Also read | Ram Lalla's eyes were sculpted in just 20 minutes, Arun Yogiraj tells WION The AKKA World Kannada Conference is a biennial event that brings together the Kannada-speaking diaspora from North America and around the world. It aims to celebrate the community's achievements while preserving the Kannada language and culture for future generations. Previous conferences have been held in major cities such as Houston, Washington D.C., and Dallas.

Ram Lalla sculptor Arun Yogiraj denied US visa for World Kannada Conference

US H-1B visa-holders&nbsp;who got their visas issued from India or Canada need not leave US just to get them renewed as the online visa renewal drive has kicked off. The pilot programme is a significant change in US visa policy in nearly two decades. There is usually a long wait to get an H-1B visa or carry out related formalities. The online visa renewal is therefore likely to be a great help for these visa holders. The drive has already started on January 29, 2024, and will go on till April 1, 2024.

The US Department of State has made an official announcement about the drive.

<h2>How to renew US H-1B visa through online renewal process?</h2>

As per the US Department of State, qualified H-1B non-immigrant visa holders who fulfil certain requirements can apply to get their visas renewed.

<h2>Eligibility for US H-1B visa online renewal</h2>

Only those H-1B visaholders whose most recent visas have been issued by US Mission Canada or by US Mission India.

In case of US Mission Canada, the date of issuance of the visa must be between January 1, 2020 through April 1, 2023.

In case of US Mission India, the date of issuance must be between February 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021.

<h2>How to renew H-1B visa online?</h2>

The link of the official webpage has been made public by the US State Department.

Step 1: When the visa-holder visits the official webpage, they will have to select the country (India or Canada) from where their most recent H-1B visa was issued. A navigator tool will then lead the visa-holder to a webpage where they can check their eligibility for the pilot online visa renewal programme.

Step 2: If the visa holder is eligible for the programme, they will be asked to follow instructions on the webpage and will have to fill and submit form DS-160. This form is called Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.

Step 3: The applicant will then be asked to pay a non-transferrable, non-refundable Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application processing fee. The fee is $205.

Step 4: The visa holder can then follow instructions on the portal to mail passport and other documents for visa renewal process.

Watch | Canada caps international student permits by one-third

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&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-based-tech-entrepreneur-donates-1375-mln-to-alma-mater-iit-madras-685187">US-based tech entrepreneur donates $13.75 million to alma mater IIT-Madras</a> 
&nbsp;

<h2>Slots for US H-1B visa renewal</h2>

A maximum of 20,000 slots will be made available for the visa renewal.

The slots will be released on following dates:&nbsp;

January 29, 2024 
February 5, 2024&nbsp; 
February 12, 2024 
February 19, 2024&nbsp; 
February 26, 2024

The applications will be made on these dates and will be processed on a first-come first-serve basis.

H-1B visa-holders may want to hurry as the drive will last only till April 1, 2024 or when 20,000 slots are filled, whichever comes first.

US H-1B visa-holders who got their visas issued from India or Canada need not leave US just to get them renewed as the online visa renewal drive has kicked off. The pilot programme is a significant change in US visa policy in nearly two decades.

US H-1B visa-holders who got their visas issued from India or Canada need not leave US just to get them renewed as the online visa renewal drive has kicked off. The pilot programme is a significant change in US visa policy in nearly two decades. There is usually a long wait to get an H-1B visa or carry out related formalities. The online visa renewal is therefore likely to be a great help for these visa holders. The drive has already started on January 29, 2024, and will go on till April 1, 2024. The US Department of State has made an official announcement about the drive. How to renew US H-1B visa through online renewal process? As per the US Department of State, qualified H-1B non-immigrant visa holders who fulfil certain requirements can apply to get their visas renewed. Eligibility for US H-1B visa online renewal Only those H-1B visaholders whose most recent visas have been issued by US Mission Canada or by US Mission India. In case of US Mission Canada, the date of issuance of the visa must be between January 1, 2020 through April 1, 2023. In case of US Mission India, the date of issuance must be between February 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021. How to renew H-1B visa online? The link of the official webpage has been made public by the US State Department. Step 1: When the visa-holder visits the official webpage, they will have to select the country (India or Canada) from where their most recent H-1B visa was issued. A navigator tool will then lead the visa-holder to a webpage where they can check their eligibility for the pilot online visa renewal programme. Step 2: If the visa holder is eligible for the programme, they will be asked to follow instructions on the webpage and will have to fill and submit form DS-160. This form is called Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Step 3: The applicant will then be asked to pay a non-transferrable, non-refundable Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application processing fee. The fee is $205. Step 4: The visa holder can then follow instructions on the portal to mail passport and other documents for visa renewal process. Watch | Canada caps international student permits by one-third × Also Read | US-based tech entrepreneur donates $13.75 million to alma mater IIT-Madras Slots for US H-1B visa renewal A maximum of 20,000 slots will be made available for the visa renewal. The slots will be released on following dates: January 29, 2024 February 5, 2024 February 12, 2024 February 19, 2024 February 26, 2024 The applications will be made on these dates and will be processed on a first-come first-serve basis. H-1B visa-holders may want to hurry as the drive will last only till April 1, 2024 or when 20,000 slots are filled, whichever comes first.

US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time&nbsp;by 75 per cent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe.

"In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read.

With more than 7,00,000 applicants, visitor or B1 and B2 visas now recuperate to represent the second-highest number of applications in the history of the US Mission.

The improvements made in the process and the increase in the number of staff members have been dubbed as the reason behind increased efficiency in the process.

Reportedly, the appointment wait time for visitor visas has come down to only 250 days around the country from an average of 1,000 days with minimal wait time in all categories around the country.

The US consular team in India issued over 140,000 student visas in the year 2023, which is more than in any other country in the world setting a record for the third consecutive year.

“Taken individually, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai now stand as the top four student visa processing posts in the world. As a result of these surging numbers, Indian students have become the largest group of international graduate students in the US and make up more than a quarter of the over one million foreign students studying in the US,” the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-delhi-airport-leads-to-suspension-of-security-personnel-684632">Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended</a>

<h2>'Employment visas remain top priority'</h2>

The US Embassy and Consulates furthermore added that employment visas remain a top priority.

Consular Team India consolidated most petition-based visa processing in Chennai and Hyderabad to increase efficiency, leading to the processing of over 3,80,000 employment visas for Indians and their family members in 2023 and allowing the US Mission to "maintain a minimal appointment wait time" for the visa applications.

In another significant development, a pilot program in 2024 would allow eligible H1B holders to renew their visas in the United States, further simplifying the process for this group.

The ones who have a pending immigrant visa petition and are ready for scheduling can now obtain an appointment within the standard, pre-pandemic appointment window, it stated.

"The US Mission continues to invest in the future of consular services in India and explore ways to provide more efficient and convenient services. These investments have included the opening of a new USD 340 million facility in Hyderabad in March 2023, the announcement of two new consulates in Ahmedabad and Bangalore, continued capital improvements to our facilities around the country, and the permanent assignment of more consular officers to India," the US Embassy and Consulates said in the statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time by 75 per cent.

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time by 75 per cent. The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe. "In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read. With more than 7,00,000 applicants, visitor or B1 and B2 visas now recuperate to represent the second-highest number of applications in the history of the US Mission. The improvements made in the process and the increase in the number of staff members have been dubbed as the reason behind increased efficiency in the process. Reportedly, the appointment wait time for visitor visas has come down to only 250 days around the country from an average of 1,000 days with minimal wait time in all categories around the country. The US consular team in India issued over 140,000 student visas in the year 2023, which is more than in any other country in the world setting a record for the third consecutive year. “Taken individually, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai now stand as the top four student visa processing posts in the world. As a result of these surging numbers, Indian students have become the largest group of international graduate students in the US and make up more than a quarter of the over one million foreign students studying in the US,” the statement said. Also read: Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended 'Employment visas remain top priority' The US Embassy and Consulates furthermore added that employment visas remain a top priority. Consular Team India consolidated most petition-based visa processing in Chennai and Hyderabad to increase efficiency, leading to the processing of over 3,80,000 employment visas for Indians and their family members in 2023 and allowing the US Mission to "maintain a minimal appointment wait time" for the visa applications. In another significant development, a pilot program in 2024 would allow eligible H1B holders to renew their visas in the United States, further simplifying the process for this group. The ones who have a pending immigrant visa petition and are ready for scheduling can now obtain an appointment within the standard, pre-pandemic appointment window, it stated. "The US Mission continues to invest in the future of consular services in India and explore ways to provide more efficient and convenient services. These investments have included the opening of a new USD 340 million facility in Hyderabad in March 2023, the announcement of two new consulates in Ahmedabad and Bangalore, continued capital improvements to our facilities around the country, and the permanent assignment of more consular officers to India," the US Embassy and Consulates said in the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US sets visa record in India, processes 1.4 million applications in 2023

With its new anti-immigration policy Pakistan has so far deported thousands of Afghans to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Unfortunately, it has uh repatriated scores of Afghans awaiting resettlement in the US under this drive quoting sources from advocacy groups.

Report: Afghans awaiting US resettlement deported by Pakistan

The United States has expanded its visa restriction policy for Ugandan officials. This comes as authorities in Uganda are accused of undermining democracy and oppressing marginalised groups.

US restricts visa for Uganda, Zimbabwe officials, restrictions for undermining democracy | WION

US expanded its visa restriction policy for Uganda. This comes after Uganda authorities are accused of undermining democracy and oppressing marginalized groups.

US restricts visa for Uganda and Zimbabwe officials

The US Mission in India on Thursday surpassed its goal of processing one million non-immigrant visa applications this year. Watch the video to know more.

Highest number of Indian students studying abroad are in US; 140,000 student visas issued to Indians

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti informed on Thursday (Sep 28) that the country's embassy and other consulates had processed a million visa applications this year.&nbsp;

According to an official release from the US Embassy in India, the mission has already surpassed the total number of cases that were processed in 2022. It added that&nbsp;almost 20 per cent more applications were being processed compared to&nbsp;pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), the US Embassy said it had surpassed its goals for the year but will not stop here.&nbsp;

"We will not stop here and continue our progress in coming months, to give as many Indian applicants the opportunity to travel to the United States."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-opposes-controversial-us-visa-policy-627473">Watch |&nbsp;India opposes controversial US visa policy</a>

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<h2>Change in strategy&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking about the changes implemented to hit such high numbers, Garcetti revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden had requested to move visas faster. Consequently, more personnel were brought on board and an overhaul of the system was implemented.&nbsp;

"PM Modi &amp; President Biden had said let's do a better job of moving faster on visas. So, MEA here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad, more people who can work on visas, we changed our systems, worked harder and smarter and we have processed a million visa applications this year today officially. We just have to continue to prepare for the future," Garcetti told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/garcetti-says-india-pakistan-need-to-resolve-issue-after-us-diplomats-secret-visit-to-pok-639815">Also read |&nbsp;Garcetti says India, Pakistan need to resolve issue after US diplomat's secret visit to PoK</a>

Garcetti added that the high number of visas reflected the growing people-to-people relationship between India and the USA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our partnership with India is one of the United States’ most important bilateral relationships and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world," he said.&nbsp;

"The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand.”

Notably, earlier this week, the US Embassy said it had issued a record number of 90,000 visas to Indian students this summer alone. Between June and August, one in four student visas worldwide was issued to an Indian.&nbsp;

In 2022, a record-breaking&nbsp;125,000 US student visas were issued to Indians last year, surpassing any other nationality.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti informed on Thursday (Sep 28) that the country's embassy and other consulates had processed a million visa applications this year.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti informed on Thursday (Sep 28) that the country's embassy and other consulates had processed a million visa applications this year. According to an official release from the US Embassy in India, the mission has already surpassed the total number of cases that were processed in 2022. It added that almost 20 per cent more applications were being processed compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), the US Embassy said it had surpassed its goals for the year but will not stop here. "We will not stop here and continue our progress in coming months, to give as many Indian applicants the opportunity to travel to the United States." Watch | India opposes controversial US visa policy × Change in strategy Speaking about the changes implemented to hit such high numbers, Garcetti revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden had requested to move visas faster. Consequently, more personnel were brought on board and an overhaul of the system was implemented. "PM Modi & President Biden had said let's do a better job of moving faster on visas. So, MEA here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad, more people who can work on visas, we changed our systems, worked harder and smarter and we have processed a million visa applications this year today officially. We just have to continue to prepare for the future," Garcetti told news agency ANI. Also read | Garcetti says India, Pakistan need to resolve issue after US diplomat's secret visit to PoK Garcetti added that the high number of visas reflected the growing people-to-people relationship between India and the USA. "Our partnership with India is one of the United States’ most important bilateral relationships and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world," he said. "The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand.” Notably, earlier this week, the US Embassy said it had issued a record number of 90,000 visas to Indian students this summer alone. Between June and August, one in four student visas worldwide was issued to an Indian. In 2022, a record-breaking 125,000 US student visas were issued to Indians last year, surpassing any other nationality. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US processes 1 million visas to Indians in 2023, ambassador Eric Garcetti says more to come

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. 
 
General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024.

Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong.

"Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.

"These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said.

Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said.

Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally.

US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. 
 
Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists.

The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said.

Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". 
In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose.

"We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said.

The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner.

The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions.&nbsp;

"What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said.

Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election.

The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. 
It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. 
 
The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations.

The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings.

Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power.

She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department.

Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions".

EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met".

The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise.

&nbsp;

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The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation.

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024. Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong. "Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said. Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said. Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally. US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists. The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said. Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose. "We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said. The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner. The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions. "What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said. Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election. The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations. The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings. Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power. She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department. Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions". EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met". The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US says will impose visa restrictions on individuals 'undermining' Bangladesh elections

Canada announced a new open work permit for H-1B visa holders in the United States, making it easier for H-1B holders to work and study in the country. Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser made the announcement on Tuesday that the government is planning to create an open work permit that will allow 10,000 American H-1B visa holders to come and work in the country.&nbsp;

In the official release, Canada’s Ministry of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) said the program aims to provide study and work permits for the family members of H-1B visa holders.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/reliances-attempt-to-acquire-boots-thwarted-as-walgreens-shelves-sale-plans-609515">Reliance's attempt to acquire Boots thwarted as Walgreens shelves sale plans</a>

"Thousands of workers in high-tech fields are employed with companies that have large operations in both Canada and the US, and those working in the US often hold an H-1B speciality occupation visa. As of July 16, 2023, H-1B speciality occupation visa holders in the US, and their accompanying immediate family members, will be eligible to apply to come to Canada," the release read.

<h2>New Innovation Stream under the IMP</h2>

IRCC will develop a new Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program to attract highly talented individuals. The government came to this solution after consulting with several tech industry stakeholders. As there are still labour shortages in key tech companies, Canada’s aim will remain at increasing its talent base.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-targets-wagner-group-in-curbs-on-gold-firms-suspected-of-funding-mercenary-force-609505">US targets Wagner Group in curbs on gold firms suspected of funding mercenary force</a>

The Canadian Government will therefore launch a new Innovation Stream by the end of 2023 that will create an exemption from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process to help employers and talented workers support Canada’s innovation priorities and high-tech industries.

IRCC is considering two options:

1. Employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers destined to work for a company identified by the Government of Canada as contributing to our industrial innovation goal

2. Open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations

<h2>New 3-year open work permit for H-1B visa holders</h2>

All the approved applicants under the new decision will receive an open work permit for up to three years in duration.&nbsp;

"They will be able to work for almost any employer anywhere in Canada. Their spouses and dependants will also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa, with a work or study permit, as needed," said the release.

Fraser said that by the end of this year, the federal government will be developing an immigration stream for some of the world’s most talented people that will be able to come to Canada to work for tech companies, irrespective of having a job or not, reported CBC News, a Canada-based news outlet.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-from-confinement-to-contentment-rescued-chimp-witnesses-sky-for-first-time-in-28-years-609499">WATCH | From confinement to contentment: Rescued chimp witnesses sky for first time in 28 years</a>

However, the Immigration minister did not explain exactly who will qualify or how many people will be admitted to the stream.&nbsp;

H-1B visas allow foreign nationals to temporarily work in the US in certain specialised occupations, including the technology sector. Tech companies went on a hiring spree during the pandemic but have since started laying people off in large numbers. This has left a lot of H-1B visa holders jobless.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Canada announced a new open work permit for H-1B visa holders in the United States, making it easier for H-1B holders to work and study in the country. Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser made the announcement on Tuesday that the government is planning to create an open work permit that will allow 10,000 American H-1B visa holders to come and work in the country.

Canada announced a new open work permit for H-1B visa holders in the United States, making it easier for H-1B holders to work and study in the country. Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser made the announcement on Tuesday that the government is planning to create an open work permit that will allow 10,000 American H-1B visa holders to come and work in the country. In the official release, Canada’s Ministry of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) said the program aims to provide study and work permits for the family members of H-1B visa holders. Also Read | Reliance's attempt to acquire Boots thwarted as Walgreens shelves sale plans "Thousands of workers in high-tech fields are employed with companies that have large operations in both Canada and the US, and those working in the US often hold an H-1B speciality occupation visa. As of July 16, 2023, H-1B speciality occupation visa holders in the US, and their accompanying immediate family members, will be eligible to apply to come to Canada," the release read. New Innovation Stream under the IMP IRCC will develop a new Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program to attract highly talented individuals. The government came to this solution after consulting with several tech industry stakeholders. As there are still labour shortages in key tech companies, Canada’s aim will remain at increasing its talent base. Also Read | US targets Wagner Group in curbs on gold firms suspected of funding mercenary force The Canadian Government will therefore launch a new Innovation Stream by the end of 2023 that will create an exemption from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process to help employers and talented workers support Canada’s innovation priorities and high-tech industries. IRCC is considering two options: 1. Employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers destined to work for a company identified by the Government of Canada as contributing to our industrial innovation goal 2. Open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations New 3-year open work permit for H-1B visa holders All the approved applicants under the new decision will receive an open work permit for up to three years in duration. "They will be able to work for almost any employer anywhere in Canada. Their spouses and dependants will also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa, with a work or study permit, as needed," said the release. Fraser said that by the end of this year, the federal government will be developing an immigration stream for some of the world’s most talented people that will be able to come to Canada to work for tech companies, irrespective of having a job or not, reported CBC News, a Canada-based news outlet. Also Read | WATCH | From confinement to contentment: Rescued chimp witnesses sky for first time in 28 years However, the Immigration minister did not explain exactly who will qualify or how many people will be admitted to the stream. H-1B visas allow foreign nationals to temporarily work in the US in certain specialised occupations, including the technology sector. Tech companies went on a hiring spree during the pandemic but have since started laying people off in large numbers. This has left a lot of H-1B visa holders jobless. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canada announces new 3-year work permit for US H-1B visa holders| Details

Officials in Bangladesh say they will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections. This comes after US says that it is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said under the new policy the United States will restrict issuing visas for any Bangladeshi individual involved in undermining the democratic election process.

US says will restricts visas for Bangladeshi nationals, PM Hasina accused of vote manipulation

Officials in Bangladesh say they will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections. This comes after the US said it is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said under the new policy the United States will restrict issuing visas for any Bangladeshi individual involved in undermining the democratic election process.

US restricts visas for Bangladeshi nationals, PM Sheikh Hasina accused of vote manipulation

The US has announced that individuals travelling to the country on a business or tourist visa — B-1 and B-2 — can apply for new jobs and even appear in interviews, but the prospective employees must ensure that they have changed their visa status before starting a new role.

B-1 and B-2 visas are generally referred to as B visas, and they are the most common types of visa issued for a wide range of uses in the United States. The B-1 visa is issued mainly for short-term business trips, while the B-2 visa is issued mainly for travelling, tourism purposes.

In a note, and a series of tweets, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Wednesday when nonimmigrant workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and may, in some instances, wrongly assume that they have no option but to leave the country within 60 days.

The move by the USCIS came as thousands of highly skilled foreign-born workers, including Indians, in the US, have lost their jobs due to a series of recent layoffs at companies like Google, Microsoft and Amazon.

They are now struggling to find new employment within the stipulated 60-day period under their work visas following the termination of their employment to stay in the country.

The maximum 60-day grace period starts the day after termination of employment, which is typically determined based on the last day for which a salary or wage is paid.

When a nonimmigrant worker's employment is terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily, they typically may take one of the several actions, if eligible, to remain in a period of authorised stay in the United States.

These include filing an application for a change of nonimmigrant status; filing an application for adjustment of status; filing an application for a "compelling circumstances" employment authorisation document; or being the beneficiary of a nonfrivolous petition to change employer.

"If one of these actions occurs within the up to 60-day grace period, the nonimmigrant's period of authorised stay in the United States can exceed 60 days, even if they lose their previous nonimmigrant status," the USCIS said.

If the worker takes no action within the grace period, they and their dependents may then need to depart the United States within 60 days, or when their authorised validity period ends, whichever is shorter, it said.

"Many people have asked if they can look for a new job while in B-1 or B-2 status. The answer is, yes. Searching for employment and interviewing for a position are permissible B-1 or B-2 activities," the USCIS said in a series of tweets.

At the same time, the USCIS said that before beginning any new employment, a petition and request for a change of status from B-1 or B-2 to an employment-authorised status must be approved, and the new status must take effect.

"Alternatively, if the change of status request is denied or the petition for new employment requested consular or port of entry notification, the individual must depart the US and be admitted in an employment-authorised classification before beginning the new employment," the USCIS said.

Amidst massive layoffs in the American tech sector that have resulted in a large number of Indian professionals being jobless, two Indian-American organisations launched an online petition last month, urging US President Joe Biden to extend the grace period of H-1B visas holders from two months to a year.

This means that once fired from a job, a foreign tech worker on H-1B visas would have one year to find a new job instead of the existing duration of 60 days, after which they have to leave the country.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. 
Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

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The US has announced that individuals travelling to the country on a business or tourist visa — B-1 and B-2 — can apply for new jobs and even appear in interviews, but the prospective employees must ensure that they have changed their visa status before starting a new role.

The US has announced that individuals travelling to the country on a business or tourist visa — B-1 and B-2 — can apply for new jobs and even appear in interviews, but the prospective employees must ensure that they have changed their visa status before starting a new role. B-1 and B-2 visas are generally referred to as B visas, and they are the most common types of visa issued for a wide range of uses in the United States. The B-1 visa is issued mainly for short-term business trips, while the B-2 visa is issued mainly for travelling, tourism purposes. In a note, and a series of tweets, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Wednesday when nonimmigrant workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and may, in some instances, wrongly assume that they have no option but to leave the country within 60 days. The move by the USCIS came as thousands of highly skilled foreign-born workers, including Indians, in the US, have lost their jobs due to a series of recent layoffs at companies like Google, Microsoft and Amazon. They are now struggling to find new employment within the stipulated 60-day period under their work visas following the termination of their employment to stay in the country. The maximum 60-day grace period starts the day after termination of employment, which is typically determined based on the last day for which a salary or wage is paid. When a nonimmigrant worker's employment is terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily, they typically may take one of the several actions, if eligible, to remain in a period of authorised stay in the United States. These include filing an application for a change of nonimmigrant status; filing an application for adjustment of status; filing an application for a "compelling circumstances" employment authorisation document; or being the beneficiary of a nonfrivolous petition to change employer. "If one of these actions occurs within the up to 60-day grace period, the nonimmigrant's period of authorised stay in the United States can exceed 60 days, even if they lose their previous nonimmigrant status," the USCIS said. If the worker takes no action within the grace period, they and their dependents may then need to depart the United States within 60 days, or when their authorised validity period ends, whichever is shorter, it said. "Many people have asked if they can look for a new job while in B-1 or B-2 status. The answer is, yes. Searching for employment and interviewing for a position are permissible B-1 or B-2 activities," the USCIS said in a series of tweets. At the same time, the USCIS said that before beginning any new employment, a petition and request for a change of status from B-1 or B-2 to an employment-authorised status must be approved, and the new status must take effect. "Alternatively, if the change of status request is denied or the petition for new employment requested consular or port of entry notification, the individual must depart the US and be admitted in an employment-authorised classification before beginning the new employment," the USCIS said. Amidst massive layoffs in the American tech sector that have resulted in a large number of Indian professionals being jobless, two Indian-American organisations launched an online petition last month, urging US President Joe Biden to extend the grace period of H-1B visas holders from two months to a year. This means that once fired from a job, a foreign tech worker on H-1B visas would have one year to find a new job instead of the existing duration of 60 days, after which they have to leave the country. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

One can apply for jobs, give interviews while on tourist or business visa in US: Federal agency

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