India has voiced strong objections to recent U.S. restrictions on processing Green Card applications for employees of major technology companies, arguing that the move is contrary to the shared economic interests of both nations. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs criticized the decision, which impacts companies such as Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Wipro, HCL Technologies, Cognizant, Microsoft, Adobe, and Capgemini, and expressed concern over remarks made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, labeling them as “unwarranted and deeply offensive.”
The U.S. action targets the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) program, a key mechanism that allows eligible foreign workers to pursue employment-based permanent residency. The Indian government emphasized that the movement of skilled professionals is mutually beneficial, bolstering innovation, research, productivity, competitiveness, and job creation in both countries. Indian professionals, according to New Delhi, make significant contributions to the U.S. economy, particularly in the technology sector.
While the suspension of PERM applications does not impact the validity of existing H-1B visas or the immigration status of current H-1B holders and their dependents, it could cause delays or disruptions for employees of the affected companies seeking Green Cards. India took issue with Vice President Vance’s comments characterizing foreign workers as “indentured servants,” a term they argue diminishes the qualifications and economic contributions of Indian professionals and carries negative historical connotations.
The decision has added to ongoing trade and immigration tensions between India and the United States. Indian technology firms have historically relied on skilled-worker visa programs to operate in the U.S., while American companies benefit from the global talent pool. The new restrictions introduce potential complications for the permanent residency plans of impacted employees and could lead to uncertainty for companies that depend on highly skilled foreign workers.