Indian students in the US are rushing to explore various options for extending their stay and enhancing their job prospects, as tougher immigration rules and fewer employment opportunities amid a wave of Trump-led protectionism threaten to crush their American dreams.
The number of affluent parents looking to fund $800,000 employment-based fifth preference (EB-5) visas—which grant permanent residence rights to recipients—for their children is on the rise. Other strategies students are exploring include enrolling in a second master’s programme or curricular practical training (CPT) programme that allows work authorisation from Day 1; opting for micro-internships and remote freelance work, besides networking aggressively, attending events, while submitting job applications continuously.
The current upheaval among Indian students comes at a time when many international students, especially those graduating this year, are struggling to secure internships or full-time roles. The US job market has tightened, marked by hiring freezes and layoffs in several firms amid recession fears and AI automation impacting entry-level jobs. Companies are also reducing H-1B sponsorships.
This, coupled with crackdowns on international students, and the threat of sudden deportation over minor past offences like DUI (driving under the influence) has instilled fear into the hearts of many.