New Visa Rules to Benefit US Graduates Seeking Work Opportunities.
The United States is poised to simplify the process for graduates of accredited US colleges and universities who have received job offers to obtain work-based nonimmigrant visas. On July 15, the US Department of State released new guidelines for consular officers, advising them on when to recommend waivers for certain applicants. These changes aim to make it easier and faster for graduates to secure work visas.
Implications for Applicants
Under this new policy, eligible applicants will experience a quicker processing time for nonimmigrant visas. This initiative also extends to recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), as the government seeks to retain skilled foreign talent in the US. According to the White House, the administration acknowledges the importance of allowing individuals educated in the US to apply their skills to benefit the nation. By streamlining the employment visa process for graduates with job offers, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, the government aims to keep valuable talent in the country.
To support this initiative, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided clear guidelines to consular officers regarding waiver recommendations. Waiver requests are processed by the DHS and the Admissibility Review Officer at US Customs and Border Protection, based on recommendations from the State Department.
Steps to Obtain an H-1B Visa
To apply for an H-1B visa or any other petition-based temporary worker visa, applicants must follow these steps:
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must approve a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129).
Once approved, the employer will receive a Notice of Action (Form I-797) from USCIS.
Prospective workers can then apply for a nonimmigrant visa and schedule an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
Alan Goodman, CEO of the Institute of International Education (IIE), highlighted the urgency for the US to hire more international graduates. He stated, “Our society is aging, our birthrate is falling, and our own citizens are choosing not to pursue degrees in STEM, healthcare, and services fields.”
Understanding DACA
DACA, which was introduced in 2012 by former President Barack Obama and then-Vice President Joe Biden, protects individuals who came to the US as children from deportation. It provides them with various benefits, including work authorization. Twelve years later, many DACA recipients have become successful professionals and have established families.
Overview of the H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers with specialized skills for a set period. Typically, it requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and applies to professions in technology, finance, engineering, and architecture, among others.
The Importance of STEM Education
STEM education encompasses the study of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through both theoretical and practical approaches. Graduates in these fields are in high demand, with 75% of jobs in related industries requiring such qualifications.
Student Visa Statistics for 2023
If the new proposal is implemented, many graduates could see benefits. In 2023, the US received 749,461 student visa applications, approving 472,262 of them. Indian students received the highest number of visas, with 134,888 approvals, followed by students from China, South Korea, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, according to USCIS.