India on Friday said the United States’ decision concerning the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) programme for certain companies does not advance the shared ambitions of the two countries.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that PERM is separate from the H-1B visa programme. It said the suspension of PERM applications does not, by itself, affect the validity of existing H-1B visas or the status of H-1B visa holders and their dependents. However, the measure could affect the permanent residency, or Green Card, process for eligible employees of the companies concerned.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
India said the US PERM measures do not advance the shared ambitions of both countries.
PERM and the H-1B visa programme are separate processes.
Existing H-1B visas are not automatically affected by the PERM suspension.
Eligible employees of affected companies could face disruptions to their Green Card processes.
India highlighted the economic benefits of skilled-worker mobility and defended Indian professionals’ contributions to the US economy.
The ministry said the movement of skilled professionals benefits both economies. While providing opportunities for Indian professionals, talent mobility helps US companies access skilled workers and supports innovation, research, productivity, competitiveness and job creation.
The MEA said the US measures did not advance the shared ambitions of India and the United States, adding that it expected all stakeholders to recognise the mutual benefits of talent mobility.
Responding to remarks by US Vice President JD Vance concerning foreign workers, the ministry described the characterisation as unwarranted, saying it overlooked the contributions of highly educated and skilled Indian professionals to the US economy and innovation ecosystem.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The decision could affect Indian professionals seeking US permanent residency through employer-sponsored immigration processes. Although the suspension does not automatically invalidate existing H-1B visas, it could complicate the Green Card process for eligible employees of the companies concerned.
The ministry also noted that generations of immigrants had contributed to the growth and prosperity of the United States through their labour, enterprise and innovation.
It said terminology carrying painful historical and colonial connotations was deeply offensive. The MEA added that India would continue to monitor developments on the issue.
