H-1B visa approvals for Indian IT firms fall by 70% since 2015
The Indian IT industry has been facing significant challenges in recent years, and one of the major concerns has been the decline in H-1B visa approvals. According to a report by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), Indian IT services companies have registered a staggering 70% drop in H-1B visa approvals since 2015. This decline has had a significant impact on the industry, with many companies struggling to secure the necessary visas for their employees.
The NFAP report, which cites data from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), reveals that the top seven Indian IT firms secured just 4,573 initial-employment petitions in FY 2025. This marks a 37% reduction since last year, highlighting the ongoing struggles of the industry. The report also notes that Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) was the only Indian IT company among the top five firms to receive H-1B visa approvals.
The decline in H-1B visa approvals has been a result of several factors, including changes in the US immigration policy and increased scrutiny of visa applications. The Trump administration’s “Buy American and Hire American” executive order, which was signed in 2017, has led to a more restrictive approach to H-1B visa approvals. The order directed federal agencies to review their guidance and rules to ensure that they prioritize the hiring of American workers.
The Indian IT industry, which has long relied on H-1B visas to secure skilled talent from abroad, has been particularly affected by these changes. Many Indian IT firms have been forced to rethink their business models and explore alternative options, such as hiring more local talent or setting up operations in other countries.
The decline in H-1B visa approvals has also had a significant impact on the US economy. The NFAP report notes that the reduction in H-1B visa approvals has resulted in a loss of opportunities for US companies to hire skilled talent from abroad. This, in turn, has hindered the ability of US companies to compete globally and innovate.
The Indian IT industry has been a significant contributor to the US economy, with many Indian firms providing critical services to US companies. The decline in H-1B visa approvals has put a strain on this relationship, with many Indian firms struggling to maintain their operations in the US.
The NFAP report highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to US immigration policy, one that balances the need to protect American workers with the need to attract skilled talent from abroad. The report notes that the current system is flawed, with many visa applications being denied due to minor errors or omissions.
To address these challenges, the US government needs to review its immigration policy and consider reforms that would make it easier for US companies to hire skilled talent from abroad. This could include increasing the number of H-1B visas available, streamlining the application process, and providing more clarity on the requirements for visa approvals.
In conclusion, the decline in H-1B visa approvals for Indian IT firms is a significant concern that needs to be addressed. The Indian IT industry has long been a critical partner for US companies, providing essential services and supporting the US economy. The US government needs to review its immigration policy and consider reforms that would make it easier for US companies to hire skilled talent from abroad.
The NFAP report provides valuable insights into the challenges facing the Indian IT industry, and highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to US immigration policy. As the US economy continues to evolve, it is essential that policymakers consider the impact of immigration policy on US companies and the economy as a whole.
About the Author
