New Delhi, Oct 9(APAC Media): The US government has suspended eight technology companies from the PERM green card programme, raising concerns among Indian IT professionals working in America.
The companies named include Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, Wipro, HCL, Cognizant, Capgemini, Microsoft and Adobe. The decision could delay employment-based green card applications for workers sponsored by these firms.
The US Department of Labour announced the move under an anti-fraud initiative, citing concerns about the use of foreign workers and potential harm to American employees. Officials alleged that some employers had used immigration programmes in ways that could affect US job opportunities and wages.
PERM, or Permanent Labour Certification, is a key step in the employment-based green card process. Employers generally need certification from the Department of Labour before sponsoring eligible foreign workers for permanent residency.
The suspension does not automatically cancel existing H-1B visas or force affected employees to leave the US. However, it could create delays for professionals waiting for employers to begin or continue their green card applications.
Impact On Indian IT Professionals
The biggest concern is for H-1B workers approaching the six-year limit on their visas. Some workers rely on progress in the employment-based green card process to qualify for extensions beyond that period. Delays could therefore affect their ability to remain in the US long-term.
Indian professionals planning to move to America through the affected companies may also face greater uncertainty. The impact will depend on how long the suspensions remain in place and whether the companies challenge the decision.
Immigration experts say the move reflects increased scrutiny of employers that recruit foreign workers. For Indian IT professionals, the immediate concern is not the cancellation of existing visas but the uncertainty surrounding permanent residency, future employment and long-term career plans in the US.
The companies could challenge the suspensions in federal court. Until the situation becomes clearer, affected employees may need to review their immigration timelines and discuss their options with qualified immigration advisers.
