As the U.S. approaches the 2024 elections, the immigration policies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are under scrutiny, particularly regarding their implications for Indian immigrants. Trump's administration previously tightened H-1B visa eligibility, leading to a significant increase in denial rates from 6% in 2015 to 24% in 2018. In contrast, Harris has expressed support for increasing the annual cap on H-1B visas, which currently stands at 65,000, potentially allowing for a higher number of skilled workers to enter the U.S. [e1574131].
The two candidates also differ in their approaches to immigration based on merit versus family connections. Trump's merit-based system prioritizes skills over familial ties, which has resulted in Indian nationals facing wait times of up to 84 years for employment-based green cards. Conversely, Harris has co-sponsored the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act, aimed at eliminating country-based caps, thereby facilitating a more equitable process for immigrants from countries like India [e1574131].
Indian students play a vital role in the U.S. economy, contributing approximately $7.6 billion annually. However, under Trump's administration, scrutiny on F-1 student visas has increased, along with proposed limitations on Optional Practical Training (OPT). Harris, on the other hand, may extend OPT for STEM graduates, providing more opportunities for international students to gain work experience in their fields [e1574131].
Additionally, Trump's administration raised the minimum investment for the EB-5 visa program from $500,000 to $900,000, while Harris's stance on entrepreneurial visa reforms remains less clear. Trump's focus on security has led to longer processing times for tourist visas, while Harris may prioritize accessibility in her immigration policies [e1574131].
Overall, both candidates present limited pathways for meaningful immigration reform, but their differing approaches could significantly impact the future of Indian immigrants in the United States [e1574131].