In an eagerly anticipated state visit to the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions regarding potential changes in visa policies for the Indian diaspora residing in America. These proposed decisions have the potential to greatly improve the lives of millions of Indians who have made America their second home.

During the visit, PM Modi revealed plans to establish two new American consulates in India, specifically in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. This development aims to simplify the visa application process, sparing aspirants the need to travel long distances for visa processing.

In a reciprocal move, India plans to open a new consulate in Seattle later this year. Two additional cities in the United States will soon host Indian Consulates, with the exact locations yet to be determined.

A notable announcement from PM Modi involved the elimination of the requirement for Indian immigrants to return to their home country solely for the purpose of renewing their H-1B visas. Instead, this process can now be conveniently accomplished at any consulate office within the United States itself.

The H-1B visa is a specialized work visa category within the United States, established under the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 101. It enables employers in the U.S. to hire foreign workers for specific occupations that require specialized expertise or skills.

In a people-centered initiative, the United States authorities have unveiled plans to introduce ‘in-country’ renewable H-1B visas. The objective of this initiative is to simplify the process of renewing visas for a large number of Indian professionals employed in the United States under the H-1B visa program. This development follows a bilateral meeting between PM Modi and US President Joe Biden.

This significant announcement closely follows another positive development, as the US Department of State recently declared its intention to launch a pilot program for the domestic renewal of select petition-based temporary work visas later this year.

Addressing the Indian diaspora communities residing in the United States, PM Modi emphasized the profound impact of their collective efforts. He expressed that collectively, they are not only shaping policies and agreements but also making a profound impact on the lives, aspirations, and futures of individuals. This announcement was met with enthusiasm by Indian civil society leaders and US delegates who were in attendance at the event.