California Immigration Law Firm Explains Increase in H-1Bs to Indians

H-1B visas are more popular than ever for Indians wishing to work in the United States. According to the U.S. Embassy in India, the United States issued 24 percent more H-1B visas to Indians in the 2011 fiscal year than in 2010, with a total of 67,195 H-1B visas being issued this past fiscal year. India is by far the largest recipient of H-1B visas issued by the United States.
 
A yearly cap of 65,000 is placed on the total number of H-1B visas issued by the United States to those with a minimum attainment of a Bachelor’s degree, with an additional 20,000 issued to those with a Master’s degree from a United States university.
What is behind the significant number of H-1B visas issued to Indians, many of whom come to work for California companies?

1. Increase in US-India business relations to enhance global prosperity
2. India has highly trained and highly skilled engineers
3. The United States has a shortage of workers with specific skills; H-1B visas allow companies to bring in highly skilled workers to fill these positions

Although some feel that issuing such a high number of H-1B visas to Indians is fraudulent, believing that employers may pay less to those hired under H-1B visas, there is a “prevailing wage” requirement and many employers would like to see an increase in the cap to bring the “cream of the crop” to their companies.
 
However, the requirements and paperwork involved with applying for H-1B visas are complex, and significant delays in the processing have made it even more difficult. You should contact a California immigration lawyer if you or your company is considering an H-1 worker visa.
 
The California immigration attorneys at the Law Offices of Vaughan de Kirby provide legal assistance with H-1B visa processing. Call the law office at (415) 221-2345; our attorneys work with clients in California and throughout the United States, as well as world-wide. Call our office or complete the contact form on this page for a free consultation. You may also order our free special report for professionals and employers that answers questions about H-1 employment visas, available on our website.