Leaving India behind, 1000’s of scholars embark on a journey to the United States, fueled by ambition and hope. But, as they quickly notice, the educational journey is just the start. The actual hurdle? For most individuals, merely finishing their training is the place most think about they’ve it simple – it’s the immigration system that almost all discover difficult. Will you be one of many success tales, or will your goals get misplaced within the paperwork?
While sitting with HindustanTimes.com, Indian-American podcaster and Visa skilled Rahul Menon defined how, throughout his engagement with the communities, he determined to give attention to the difficulty of training for immigrants and made it his job to information college students by these murky waters. That is why Menon is an ideal instance, as he’s acquainted with these frustrations and challenges himself.
Menon emphasizes the significance of being knowledgeable concerning the US immigration system from the second one arrives within the nation. “What many do not notice is the complexity of the US immigration system,” he notes. “As somebody who’s been by this journey, I want I had recognized extra earlier than I turned too invested to show again.”
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One of probably the most important challenges college students face is the transition from tutorial life to the workforce. After finishing their diploma, worldwide college students on F-1 visas can work for as much as three years: one 12 months beneath Optional Practical Training (OPT) and a further two years beneath the STEM OPT Extension, for these with STEM levels.
Essential information to US Immigration for present and aspiring Indian college students
During this time, college students should safe an H-1B visa, a piece visa that permits them to remain employed within the US. However, Menon highlights a significant flaw within the system: “Logically, this visa ought to be awarded based mostly on instructional advantage and work expertise. Instead, the system depends on an annual lottery, randomly choosing 85,000 folks no matter their expertise or skillset.”
“There is a few optimistic information: USCIS has cracked down on a number of lottery entries, lowering eligible registrations from 758,994 in FY 2024 to 470,342 in FY 2025 – a 38.6% lower. This has improved the percentages of choice from 11% to 18%,” he added. While this marginal enchancment gives some reduction, it reinforces the necessity for college students to be ready.
The Visa podcaster suggested, “Homesickness and loneliness are the primary challenges you may face. The pals you make in college will turn into your new household,” and added, “Research earlier than spending cash. Whether it is telephone plans, medical health insurance, or loans, there’s typically a extra inexpensive various.”
Menon recommendation college students to make use of the OPT interval extra effectively
Menon strongly requested each Indian pupil within the US to “Make probably the most of your International Student Office and Designated School Official (DSO). They’re invaluable, typically underused assets that may information you thru your immigration journey.”
“The wait occasions for a Green Card are exceptionally lengthy – probably a long time. If immigration freedom is a precedence, think about various international locations,” he famous, whereas chalking some doable methods out.
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“Interestingly, you can begin your personal firm on a pupil visa and work there throughout your OPT interval.”
The Maharashtra Institute of Technology goer additionally extending assist to new college students transitioning to America. “Whether you are a brand new pupil, trying to join professionally, or an early profession skilled, really feel free to succeed in out and schedule a name with me,” he stated.