US eases green card eligibility norms to aid Indian tech professionals ahead of PM Modi's visit
Washington, June 19: Days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the United States, the Biden administration has announced the easing of eligibility norms for green cards, providing relief to thousands of Indian technology professionals waiting for permanent residency.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released policy guidance outlining the criteria for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications in compelling circumstances. Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US, from June 21-24, comes at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. During the visit, PM Modi will attend a state dinner on June 22 and deliver an address to the Joint Session of Congress.
The USCIS guidance focuses on the eligibility criteria for initial and renewal EAD applications. It specifies the requirements for applicants to qualify for an initial EAD based on compelling circumstances. These requirements include being the principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, maintaining valid non-immigrant status or being within an authorised grace period, not having filed an adjustment of status application, and meeting biometrics and criminal background requirements.
Also Read: Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar shot dead in Canada
The USCIS will exercise discretion in determining whether an applicant demonstrates compelling circumstances that justify the issuance of employment authorization. This move is seen as a significant step towards assisting individuals facing challenging situations and ensuring their ability to work lawfully in the United States.
Ajay Bhutoria, a prominent community leader and advocate for immigrant rights, emphasized the importance of these measures for individuals and their dependents facing serious illness or disability, employer disputes or retaliation, significant harm, or disruptions to employment. The USCIS's non-exhaustive list of qualifying circumstances allows individuals to present evidence supporting their case.
For example, individuals with approved immigrant visa petitions in oversubscribed categories or chargeability areas can submit evidence like school or higher education enrollment records, mortgage records, or long-term lease records to demonstrate compelling circumstances.
These policy changes can be crucial for families facing the potential loss of their home, withdrawal of children from school, or the need to relocate to their home country due to job loss. The Foundation of India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), an organisation advocating for laid-off H1-B workers, commended the USCIS for taking this step, as it will greatly benefit a large number of Indian IT professionals.
Khanderao Kand from FIIDS expressed pride in their sustained advocacy efforts over the past six months, which have influenced USCIS considerations and adjustments. The announcement of these eased eligibility norms for green cards marks a positive development for Indian professionals waiting for permanent residency in the United States.
Also Read: PM Modi US, Egypt visit: Date, agenda, events, schedule, yoga day celebrations
- With inputs from agencies
