An Indian tech professional’s American dream has hit a standstill. After five years of moving from F-1 to H-1B status, the journey toward a green card has stalled. The worker now faces a growing sense of frustration and uncertainty.
Green Card Hopes Fading
The H-1B holder shared online that they’ve spent nearly three years on the work visa, expecting their employer to start the green card process. Instead, the company plans to begin the PERM and I-140 filings only by the end of the fifth year. Despite having three years and three months of H-1B time left, permanent residency now seems distant.
Job Hunt Turns Into Struggle
The techie said switching jobs has been nearly impossible. After sending over 50 applications every week for three months, they managed only three interviews. Most rejections came as soon as employers realised visa transfer was needed.
Big Firms No Exception
Even a final-round interview at Amazon ended without an offer. The worker said this shows how harsh the market has become for H-1B employees. Many U.S. companies avoid hiring candidates who need sponsorship, especially after recent restrictions on foreign worker visas.
A Painful Decision Ahead
Now, the techie is considering returning to India for a few years before using the remaining H-1B time later. But the new U.S. visa policies, including higher wage requirements and a $100,000 entry fee, make even that plan uncertain.
A Larger Struggle for Skilled Indians
The worker’s situation reflects the growing struggle many skilled Indians face in the U.S. They’re stuck between staying in a shrinking job market or returning home and giving up on years of hard work and dreams.
