A new opportunity has opened up for Indians who want to work in the United States. The US State Department has made significant changes to the J-1 visa rules.
Now, people from 34 countries, including India, China, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, no longer need to return to their home country for two years after their program ends.
In simple terms, J-1 visa holders can now work in the US instead of going back to their country.
Changes in J-1 Visa Rules and Who it Affects
The new visa rules do not apply to J-1 visa holders who came to the US through government funding or graduate medical education programs.
The changes to the ‘Exchange Visitors Skill List’ allow J-1 visa holders to get an H-1B visa or apply for a green card. This update is the first in 15 years.
The Exchange Visitors Skills List was updated, which identifies specific fields in countries that are important for their development.
Before, J-1 visa holders from countries on this list had to return home for two years after completing their program.
Now, only 27 countries still have this requirement. These changes reflect global economic trends and a country’s progress in areas like education and healthcare.
What is the Exchange Visitors Skill List?
The Exchange Visitors Skills List shows the countries and the fields important for their development.
J-1 visa holders from countries on the list had to return home after their programs. However, with the updated rules, countries like India
and China are no longer on this list due to their economic development and education progress.
On the other hand, countries like the Philippines are still on the list due to specific needs.
Benefits for J-1 Visa Holders
Indians who entered the US on a J-1 visa can now consider staying and working in the US permanently. They can apply for visas like the H-1B visa or even a green card.
This change is particularly beneficial for Indian researchers, doctors, and trainees, as it removes obstacles that previously made it difficult to work in the US.
American companies will also benefit from these changes as they will have access to more skilled professionals in fields like STEM, healthcare, and engineering.
Research institutions and universities can offer H-1B visas to J-1 visa holders without the need for a lottery, providing more job opportunities for Indians and giving American companies access to talented workers.
What is a J-1 Visa?
The J-1 visa is given to individuals who come to the US for exchange programs. These programs are designed to promote cultural and educational exchange between countries.
The programs are usually run by US institutions or government agencies. The visa allows people to learn new skills in the US and use them in their home country.
J-1 visas are offered in several categories, including researchers, professors, students, interns, doctors, and camp counselors.
