US Suspends Immigration for 60 Days: H1B and Other US Visa Holders Unlikely to be Affected

After The United States of America announced its decision to suspend all immigration for 60 days yesterday, President Donald Trump in his address to the media categorically stated that this move pertained to Green Card and other permanent immigration procedures only. The move is unlikely to impact H1B, F1, and other US Visa holders.

“Millions of Americans sacrificed their jobs in order to battle the virus and save the lives of our fellow citizens. We have a solemn duty to ensure these unemployed Americans regain their jobs and livelihoods. Therefore, in order to protect American workers, I will be issuing a temporary suspension of immigration into the United States,” said President Trump in his address to the media.

“It would be wrong and unjust for Americans laid-off by the virus to be replaced with new immigrant labour flown in from abroad. This pause will be in effect for 60b days, after which the need for any extension or modification will be evaluated based on economic conditions at the time,” he added.

Furthermore, President Trump clearly stated that this order will only apply to individuals seeking a permanent residency, or those seeking Green Cards. This decision will not apply to those coming into the US on a temporary basis, he said. “As we move forward we’ll examine what additional immigration-related measures should be put in place to protect US workers, and as we move forward we will become more protective of them,” added President Trump.

After Trump’s tweet yesterday, H1B and other US visa holders took to several platforms to question if they would be impacted by the decision in any way. NASSCOM as well had asked for more clarity on the decision. Since it is only immigration that has been suspended as of now, those whose US Visa is nearing expiry can most likely apply for an extension with USCIS online.