US scrutiny on H-1B visas: MEA stresses mutual benefits of India-US mobility

Responding to claims in the United States that some companies are exploiting the H-1B visa system to hire cheaper Indian staff, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "The mobility partnership between India and the United States is an important pillar of this relationship. It supports our technology and economic collaboration, as well as initiatives in innovation, emerging technologies, and financial cooperation. We value this partnership, as it brings mutual benefits to both sides."

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, on H-1B visa, the mobility partnership between India and the United States is an important pillar of this relationship. It supports our technology and economic collaboration, as well as initiatives in innovation, emerging technologies, and… pic.twitter.com/gLPCJqCnJ3

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 5, 2025

The comments follow growing US scrutiny of the H-1B programme. The Department of Justice has launched probes into alleged discrimination and misuse of visas. Media reports indicate that Indian-origin IT firms, including TCS and Infosys, account for about one-fifth of all H-1B visas issued, prompting concerns that the system is being leveraged to hire lower-cost workers.

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US officials, including Commerce Secretary Lutnick, have publicly called the H-1B system a “scam” and suggested reforms to prevent abuse. Some reports in Florida and other states have alleged that H-1B visas were sometimes used to bring in staff at wages lower than local market rates, raising fears of unfair competition.

The H-1B visa is a US work visa that allows companies to employ foreign workers in specialised roles, mainly in technology, engineering, and research. It is intended to fill skill gaps in the US workforce. Each year, the US government issues a limited number of H-1B visas through a lottery system, and companies must meet wage and employment regulations to qualify.

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Despite criticisms, India emphasises the broader benefits of skilled workforce mobility. The MEA highlighted that the H-1B system supports technology transfer, innovation, and financial cooperation between the two countries. Jaiswal’s statement reflects India’s stance that visa mobility forms a key pillar of the bilateral economic and technology partnership, benefiting both nations.