Why Amazon and Google Have Suspended Green Card Applications: Impact on Jobs and Indian Aspirants

By News 24 Media, May 4, 2024

In a surprising move, tech giants Amazon and Google have recently suspended green card applications, sending shockwaves through the immigrant workforce in the United States. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this decision, its potential impact on jobs, and what it means for Indian aspirants.

The Backstory of Green Card Suspension

1. Increased Difficulty: Both Amazon and Google have reportedly paused green card applications due to increased difficulty in the process. The path to obtaining a green card has become more arduous, leading these companies to rethink their approach.
2. PERM Applications: The companies stopped accepting PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) applications in 2023. PERM is a crucial step in the green card process, allowing US-based companies to hire foreign workers for permanent residency.
3. Layoffs and Industry Turmoil: Recent layoffs in the tech industry, including those at Microsoft, have further complicated matters. The companies are grappling with the aftermath of downsizing while navigating the green card maze.

Impact on Jobs

1. Foreign Job Seekers: The suspension affects foreign job seekers in tech. With green card applications on hold, overseas candidates seeking US tech jobs may need to explore opportunities beyond traditional hubs like Silicon Valley and New York City.
2. Existing Workers: Foreign tech workers already employed by Amazon and Google could face challenges extending their US work authorization. The uncertainty surrounding green cards adds stress to their professional lives.
3. Meta’s Approach: Interestingly, Meta (formerly Facebook) continues green card sponsorships, albeit with significantly slower processes. The company’s commitment to foreign talent contrasts with Amazon and Google’s decisions.

Impact on Indian Aspirants

1. Long Wait Times: New applicants from India face a lifetime wait for green cards. Over 400,000 Indians are expected to face uncertainty while waiting in the queue. The backlog is staggering, with an estimated long waiting time .
2. EB-2 and EB-3 Categories: For new Indian applicants, the backlog in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories has become akin to a “life sentence”. The dream of permanent residency remains elusive for many.
3. Children at Risk: Over 100,000 Indian children in the US under the H-4 visa system risk being separated from their parents due to the backlog. As they age out at 21, they must secure student visas or self-deport.

The Bigger Picture

1. Annual Cap: The annual cap of 7% per country for green cards exacerbates the problem. Demand often exceeds these limits, leading to significant backlogs.
2. Google’s Plea: Google has urged the US government to update immigration rules on green cards and hiring. The current system needs reform to accommodate the growing demand for skilled workers.
3. Human Cost: Beyond statistics, there’s a human cost. Dreams deferred, families separated, and careers put on hold—these are the real consequences of the green card backlog.

In conclusion, the suspension of green card applications by Amazon and Google has far-reaching implications. As the tech industry evolves, policymakers must address these challenges to ensure a fair and efficient immigration system. Meanwhile, Indian aspirants continue to wait, hoping for a brighter future across the Pacific.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an immigration attorney for personalized guidance.

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