No big-changes in H-1B, nothing new in H-4 visas: US
There have been "no big changes" in the H-1B program and "nothing new" on the H-4 visa policy, said the US Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) MaryKay L Carlson, amid the Trump administration's plan to overhaul the immigration system. While observing "Student Visa Day" in Delhi, Carlson said granting employment visa and work permit for Indians is the sovereign decision of a country.
Trump administration is trying to end Obama-era rule
Trump administration's move to end the Obama-era rule could have an impact on more than 70,000 H-4 visas holders, who have work permits. H-4 is issued to spouse of H-1B visa holders, a significantly large number of whom are high-skilled professionals from India. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had said the government would make all efforts to persuade the Trump administration against such move.
US Embassy welcomed over 4,000 Indian students
The Mission also the dedicated the day to student visa applicants who have enrolled for higher studies in different US universities. The US Embassy in New Delhi welcomed over 4,000 Indian students, who applied for visas to study in the United States.
Over 1.86 lakh Indian students enrolled in US in 2017
In 2017, more than 1,86,000 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions for higher education, more than double the number from a decade ago and a 12% increase from the year before. India is the second leading place of origin for students coming to the US, with Indians comprising over 17% of the total international students in the United States, according to the US.
Consular staff members wore shirts, hats from their alma maters
The consular staff members wore shirts and hats from their alma maters. Some consulates invited guest alumni speakers, while others had a video or "selfie" station. Representatives from partners, including EducationUSA, the American Library, and recent US graduates were present at the event to give their insights and answer queries from students about studying in the United States.
