Immigration

The U.S. government has opened at least 175 investigations into suspected misuse of the H-1B visa program, intensifying efforts to ensure foreign worker visas are issued only in compliance with federal labor and immigration laws. Authorities have signaled a renewed focus on preventing fraudulent applications, wage suppression, and outsourcing models that may disadvantage American workers. The initiative reflects a broader policy priority aimed at balancing the nation’s need for skilled global talent with job protection for domestic employees.

India’s hub airports are implementing advanced seamless immigration systems to streamline passenger processing and reduce wait times, significantly enhancing travel convenience. Leveraging biometric technology, automated e-gates, and digital verification processes, these initiatives aim to accelerate arrivals and departures while maintaining high security standards. Airports such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are leading the adoption of these technologies, catering to rising passenger traffic and improving operational efficiency.

BLS International Services, a leading global provider of visa, passport, and consular services, has successfully secured a visa processing contract for Cyprus, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for international governments. The agreement covers end-to-end visa facilitation services, including application submission, biometric collection, document verification, and customer support.

A 71-year-old woman from Punjab has recounted a traumatic experience after being deported from the United States, describing being handcuffed and her feet restrained during the process. The incident has sparked widespread concern about the treatment of elderly deportees and highlighted systemic challenges in international immigration enforcement. Authorities confirmed the deportation was carried out following standard legal procedures, but the emotional and physical strain on the individual has drawn public attention.

The United States has announced a significant increase in H-1B visa fees, a move poised to affect both Indian professionals and American employers relying on skilled foreign labor. The revised fee structure, which takes effect immediately, is intended to fund regulatory oversight and improve visa processing efficiency. For Indian IT professionals, who constitute the largest H-1B applicant pool, this hike raises the cost of employment and may influence migration decisions.

Indian airports are increasing the number of immigration counters to accommodate the anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming festival season. With domestic and international travel expected to rise, authorities aim to reduce wait times, streamline passenger processing, and enhance overall airport efficiency. The expansion is part of a broader initiative to improve airport infrastructure and passenger experience, addressing seasonal congestion challenges.

In a significant policy decision, the Indian government has announced that Hindus and Sikhs who entered the country without valid passports up to 2024 will be permitted to remain legally. This move is expected to benefit thousands of migrants who arrived from neighboring countries due to religious persecution or socio-political instability. The decision reflects a broader effort to provide humanitarian relief and address longstanding citizenship concerns.

In a sweeping policy move, the Trump administration launched an extensive review of approximately 55 million individuals holding various categories of U.S. visas, scrutinizing potential violations that could lead to deportation or legal consequences. The initiative reflects the government’s intensified stance on immigration enforcement, with a focus on rooting out fraud, overstays, and misuse of visa privileges.

In a critical clarification aimed at international travelers and visa applicants, the U.S. Embassy has underscored that security screening procedures do not cease once a visa has been granted. Rather, they form a continuous process designed to uphold national security, which could even result in a visa being revoked before or during travel. This statement serves as a reminder of the United States’ layered approach to border security, balancing open travel with rigorous vetting.

VFS Global’s Education, Trade and Migration (ETM) Services unit has entered into a strategic partnership with Rayad Group, an international immigration and legal consultancy, to provide immigration advisory services in India. This collaboration is designed to streamline access to expert guidance for individuals and businesses navigating increasingly complex global mobility requirements.