US increases legal immigration for Indians amid illegal crackdown
What's the story
Under President Donald Trump's administration, the US is stepping up its legal immigration while cracking down on illegal immigrants.
The number of visas granted to Indian nationals in January 2025 was significantly higher than for the same period last year.
This spike comes as Trump presses forward his wider strategy of securing US borders and deporting illegals.
Deportation efforts
333 Indian nationals deported in February 2025
As part of Trump's promise toward border security, 333 Indian nationals who illegally entered the US were deported in February 2025.
The action was undertaken through three chartered planes by the US Army.
However, even with the aggressive action against illegal immigrants, there has been a significant increase in legal immigration from India during the same time.
Visa surge
US issued 16,676 more visas to Indians in January
In January 2025, the US granted 16,676 additional visas to Indian nationals compared to 2024.
This comes amid a considerable increase in non-immigrant visas (NIVs) issued, which are awarded to foreigners who wish to stay temporarily in the US.
The total number of NIVs issued to Indians stood at 131,172 in January 2025 up from 114,496 in the same month last year.
Economic impact
Skilled immigrants vital for US economy
The Trump administration is on the lookout for skilled immigrants who can fill crucial gaps in the workforce and augment sectors including technology, business, and higher education.
Narpat Singh Babbar, a US immigration consultant, says "skilled immigrants, particularly from countries like India play a critical role in the US economy."
He points to Indian nationals at top companies like Google and Microsoft who contribute hugely to economic growth.
Future outlook
Legal immigration remains cornerstone of US economic strategy
Amid the Trump administration's tough stance on illegal immigrants, data shows a consistent increase in the issuance of legal visas, especially for business, student, and skilled work.
Babbar expects the upward trend of legal immigration under Trump to continue.
"The focus is on legal immigrants who contribute to the economy and this is a clear signal that the US is still very much open to people who can add value."