Here’s how Biden’s new executive order could be a game-changer for Indian students who are holders of H-1Bs.

 

Here’s how Biden’s new executive order could be a game-changer for Indian students who are holders of H-1Bs.

An Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence has been signed by US President Joe Biden. The order aims to ensure that artificial intelligence systems are safe and secure, while also promoting their development in the United States. It stresses the need for companies to report any potential risks associated with their artificial intelligence systems that could be exploited by countries or terrorists for the production of weapons of mass destruction.

The President's Executive Order, together with the security measures, enshrines provisions for attracting multinational talent to US companies and research institutions in order to strengthen America's artificial intelligence capabilities. In key areas, according to the Biden administration, it is hoped that immigrants' and nonimmigrants' skills will be used to enable them to remain in the US while studying or working. The process of applying for and reviewing visas will be made more efficient to facilitate this.

The students of the science, technology, engineering and math fields have a number of benefits from this Directive. The reduced processing time and associated costs are one of the major advantages. For the short visa interview at the embassy, students will no longer have to go back to their country. And without the need to renew visas, this change would also make it easier for students to participate in international conferences and provide them with a more comfortable travelling experience.

More than 500,000 holders of H1B visas are expected to benefit from the EO Directive. In order to facilitate the migration of such visa holders towards new employment, and for more predictability in the renewal process, the Ministry of Homeland Security has put forward rules which would make it easier. They will also be given greater flexibility in using their skills and more opportunities to do so. Improved access to the H1B visa will also be beneficial for entrepreneurs.

Currently, the number of international students studying in the U.S. is about 900,000, and almost half of those students are enrolled in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Approximately 450,000 of these students could potentially be impacted by this policy change, including those enrolled in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs. Many of these international students have advanced degrees, and nearly 50% of all STEM doctoral candidates are international students.

Students and professionals from both India and China will also benefit from the executive order. The updated skills list will better match the changing needs of the global labor market. This update will open up more possibilities for participants in J-1 visas, which include professors and research scholars, as well as short-time scholars, many of whom come from China and from India. The updated skills list will allow more highly-skilled holders of J-1 visas to apply for different visa categories right away, rather than having to stay in their home country for two years.

Director: Vinit Kejriwal

Email: info@theoverseasconsultant.com

Mobile No: 9321451386