India has expressed strong disapproval of the United States’ decision to suspend certain Green Card application processing for eight major technology companies, a move affecting firms such as Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Wipro, and HCL Technologies. This action targets the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) programme, which is essential for foreign workers seeking employment-based permanent residency in the U.S. New Delhi argues that the decision undermines the shared economic objectives of both nations.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the significant contributions of Indian professionals to the U.S. economy, emphasizing their role in fostering innovation, research, and competitiveness. The ministry clarified that while the suspension affects the Green Card process, it does not impact the validity of existing H-1B visas or the immigration status of current H-1B visa holders and their dependents. Nonetheless, employees of the affected companies may face delays or disruptions in their path to permanent residency.
The criticism extends to remarks made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who referred to foreign professionals as “indentured servants,” a description India finds “unwarranted and deeply offensive.” The Indian government contends that such language disregards the qualifications and economic contributions of Indian professionals and carries negative historical and colonial connotations.
This development adds strain to the existing trade and immigration tensions between India and the U.S. Indian technology firms have traditionally relied on skilled-worker visa programmes to place professionals in the U.S., while American tech companies benefit from this international talent pool. The new restrictions could complicate permanent residency plans for affected employees and introduce additional uncertainty for companies dependent on skilled foreign workers.
