US Lawmakers Unite to Tackle Green Card Backlog and H-1B Visa Issues

At a recent immigration summit dubbed the ‘Tech Immigration Summit,’ held at the US Capitol, lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties joined forces to address pressing concerns surrounding the Green Card backlog and issues related to the H-1B visa program.

Urgent Call to Address Green Card Backlog

The Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, grants individuals the right to live and work permanently in the United States. However, the current backlog in processing Green Card applications, particularly affecting Indian professionals, has drawn significant attention.

Hosted by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora (FIIDS), the summit saw bipartisan efforts to highlight the necessity of eliminating the 7% country cap for issuing Green Cards to foreign guest workers in specialized categories.

Extended Waiting Periods

Reports from the news agency PTI indicate that without reform, the waiting period for Indian immigrants could extend beyond 20 years, and in certain cases, surpass 70 years. This backlog not only affects individuals but also has broader implications for American industries and innovation.

Congressional Advocacy for Reform

Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna, co-chair of the Congressional India Caucus, emphasized the vital role immigrants play in driving innovation and economic growth, particularly in Silicon Valley.

Khanna advocated for the removal of country caps to prevent prolonged waiting periods, citing the benefits to both American workers and H-1B visa holders.

Broader Impacts and Urgency for Reform

Congressman Eric Swalwell underscored the interconnectedness of immigration reform with broader societal challenges such as healthcare, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

Other lawmakers, including Shri Thanedar, echoed the urgent need for a revamped immigration system to retain skilled workers and bolster American businesses.

Calls for Legislative Action

Congressmen Rich McCormick and Raja Krishnamoorthi urged the passage of relevant legislation in the US Congress to address these pressing issues.

Khanderao Kand from FIIDS emphasized the indispensable role of technological immigrants as leading entrepreneurs and highlighted the detrimental effects of the 7% country quota.

Hope for Meaningful Reform

Representatives from various organizations and impacted individuals expressed optimism for meaningful reform to create a more efficient and inclusive immigration system. Testimonies were heard from individuals directly affected by the immigration system, including those awaiting Green Cards, documented Dreamers, family members, and students.

Conclusion

The Tech Immigration Summit served as a platform for bipartisan collaboration and advocacy for immigration reform, addressing the challenges faced by Indian professionals and the broader implications for the US economy and society.

As discussions continue, there is hope for legislative action to alleviate the Green Card backlog and ensure a more streamlined and equitable immigration process for all.

(With Inputs from PTI, Edited by Travelobiz staff)