United States of America : Under Donald Trump, fears of renewed scrutiny on the H-1B visa, which is often used by Indian professionals, coupled with rising anti-immigrant sentiment, have left many on edge. Although the H-1B is the preferred visa type for Indians working in the US who account for over 70% of all H-1Bs issued, plenty of alternative visa options are available.
The H-2A visa applies to agricultural workers; the H-2B covers seasonal non-agricultural positions in areas like hospitality and construction. The H-3 visa category is for foreign nationals who are coming to the US temporarily to receive On-the-job training, except for graduate medical education or training.
If you’re already working for a foreign multinational company, the L-1 allows you to transfer to US offices without an annual cap, an even better alternative to the H-1B. O-1 Visa for those with special talent in sciences, arts, or business.
P-1 visas are available for entertainers, athletes and artists, and those participating in cultural exchange programs may be eligible for a Q-1 visa. R-1 visas are used by religious workers to work for US religious organizations.
Family of H-1B and L-1 holders can also relocate to the US on H-4 and L-2 visas, with some receiving work authorization.
Indians remain a major presence in the US job market, and although the H-1B is its best known pathway, the one that most of the discussion here is about, it’s not the only one. These alternatives give you affordable new opportunities.
