India has criticised the United States over its decision to suspend major technology companies from the employment-based Green Card process, saying the move does not advance the shared ambitions of the two countries. New Delhi also described US Vice President JD Vance’s remarks on foreign workers as deeply offensive, adding a fresh point of tension to India-US relations.
The development comes as the Trump administration intensifies its scrutiny of skilled-worker immigration and employment-based residency programmes.
1. India Responds to US Immigration Curbs
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over the suspension of Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) applications involving several major technology firms. The ministry said talent mobility contributes to economic growth in both countries and stressed the importance of cooperation on skilled employment.
New Delhi argued that restrictions of this kind do not support the broader objectives of the India-US partnership.
2. Major Technology Companies Face Restrictions
The affected companies include Indian IT giants Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro and HCL Technologies, alongside US-based firms such as Microsoft and Adobe. The restrictions prevent the companies from submitting new PERM applications or having pending applications processed under the announced suspension.
US officials have linked the action to investigations into alleged misuse of employment and immigration programmes. The allegations and investigations form part of Washington’s broader effort to scrutinise foreign-worker hiring practices.
3. What Is the PERM Programme?
PERM is a labour certification process generally required for employers sponsoring foreign workers for certain employment-based Green Cards. It involves demonstrating that the hiring meets applicable US labour-market requirements.
The suspension could delay a key stage in the permanent-residency process for eligible employees of the affected companies. However, the restriction is distinct from the H-1B visa programme.
4. Existing H-1B Visa Holders Not Directly Affected
India’s foreign ministry clarified that suspending PERM applications does not automatically invalidate existing H-1B visas or change the status of current H-1B visa holders and their dependents.
Nevertheless, eligible workers seeking permanent residency could face delays or uncertainty. The distinction is important for Indian professionals working in the US who may be planning long-term employment and residency.
5. JD Vance Defends the US Decision
US Vice President JD Vance defended the administration’s approach, arguing that some companies rely on foreign workers in ways that disadvantage American employees. His comments reflect Washington’s emphasis on protecting domestic jobs and investigating suspected abuses of employment-based immigration systems.
India objected strongly to the remarks, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding Indian professionals who contribute to American technology companies and the wider economy.
6. Implications for Indian IT Workers
The restrictions could create uncertainty for Indian employees whose employers sponsor them for permanent residency. Delays in the Green Card process may complicate long-term career decisions, family planning and employment arrangements.
Indian IT companies could also face additional challenges in managing international assignments and retaining skilled employees. The wider impact will depend on the duration of the suspension and the outcome of the US investigations.
7. India-US Relations Face a Fresh Test
India and the United States maintain extensive cooperation in technology, trade, defence and innovation. The latest disagreement highlights the challenge of balancing immigration enforcement and domestic employment priorities with the benefits of international talent mobility.
The coming weeks may provide greater clarity on the restrictions and their implications for affected companies and workers. For India, the key concern remains ensuring fair treatment of skilled professionals while preserving the broader strategic partnership with Washington.India US Green Card restrictions