Impact of Trump’s Re-election on H-1B Visa Programme

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Donald Trump’s re-election could lead to significant changes in the H-1B visa programme.
2. In 2022, 77% of H-1B visas were issued to Indians.
3. Trump previously imposed strict policies affecting the H-1B process.
4. In his 2024 campaign, Trump proposed tighter immigration policies.
5. Stricter rules may impact Indian IT professionals and the tech industry.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Donald Trump’s re-election in 2025 has reignited discussions regarding potential changes to the H-1B visa programme, a vital path for skilled foreign workers, particularly from India. In 2022, Indians accounted for 77% of approved H-1B visa applications, highlighting their significant presence in this domain.

Trump’s History with Immigration Policies
During his first term, Trump enacted measures that made the H-1B application process more complex.

• Increased Denial Rates: Visa denial rates jumped from 6% in 2015 to 24% in 2018 and peaked at 30% in 2020.
• Higher Wage Requirements: In 2020, an interim rule raised wage requirements by 43%-71%.
• Limiting Visa Numbers: There were considerations to prioritize applicants with advanced degrees.

Plans for Further Restrictions
In the 2024 campaign, Trump proposed further tightening legal immigration policies, affecting tech giants like Amazon and Google, who rely on H-1B visas for specialized roles. Reports indicate shorter H-1B durations for third-party site workers.

Impact on Indian Professionals
Stricter policies could limit opportunities for Indian workers in tech. Family reunification processes might also be affected.

What Should Applicants Do?
Stay informed about policy changes, consult immigration experts, and explore alternative visa options. Preparing for a stricter process will be essential.

Key Takeaways to Remember

• Trump’s re-election may bring stricter H-1B visa policies.
• Indian professionals in tech should anticipate challenges.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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