How the US is ramping up legal immigration amidst a crackdown on illegal migrants

However, this aggressive action against illegal immigrants is contrasted by a parallel shift in the US government’s stance on legal immigration. In January 2025, the US issued more visas to Indian nationals than the previous year. Here is what to know.

Number of visas issued by the US

After President Trump assumed office, the US granted 16,676 more visas to Indian nationals in January 2025 over the previous year.

Of these, the non-immigrant visas (NIVs) – issued by the US to foreigners who plan to stay in the US temporarily – are significant. The total number of nonimmigrant visas (NIVs) issued to Indians in January 2025 reached 131,172, an increase from 114,496 in January 2024. The NIVs to Indians also comprise 13.72% of the total NIVs issued in January 2025.

The counsellor sections of the US Embassy and councils issue such visas. This uptick indicates that the US continues to welcome legal immigrants, particularly those who can contribute to the economy through skilled labour.

Advantage entrepreneurs, businesspeople

The US administration is actively seeking skilled immigrants who can fill important gaps in the labour force and contribute to sectors such as technology, business, and higher education. Experts argue that the US economy heavily relies on skilled professionals to drive innovation and business growth, and to support the country’s universities and colleges. Educated and skilled immigrants are highly valued in these sectors, and this is reflected in the increase in visas issued.

The number of business and tourism (B1/B2) visas issued in January 2025 increased significantly to 91,096 over 77,769 the previous year. Similarly, the number of student visas issued increased from 590 in January 2024 to 1,167 in January 2025. H1B work visas for skilled professionals rose from 15,710 to 17,876, while H4 dependent visas for family members of H1B visa holders also saw an increase, from 9,821 last year to 10,833 this January.

The role of skilled migrants in the US

“Skilled immigrants, particularly from countries like India, play a critical role in the US economy,” said Narpat Singh Babbar, a US immigration consultant who manages Jupiterr Academy in Jalandhar. “Many Indian nationals work in top companies such as Google, Microsoft, and other tech giants, contributing to groundbreaking innovations and significant economic returns. These professionals help keep the US at the forefront of technology and business, and their contributions are essential to maintaining the nation’s competitive edge globally”.

Despite the Trump administration’s more stringent approach to deporting illegal immigrants, the data shows a growing trend of granting legal visas, especially in business, student, and skilled work categories. These categories are seen as essential to sustaining US global competitiveness.

Future outlook for US immigration

This upward trend of legal immigration under Trump will likely continue according to Babbar. He said, “The focus is on legal immigrants who contribute to the economy, and this is a clear signal that the US is still very much open to people who can add value.”

As the Trump administration continues to combat illegal immigration, legal immigration remains a cornerstone of the US economic strategy, with countries like India playing an increasingly crucial role in the nation’s growth and global standing.

“This strategic balancing act—between deporting illegal immigrants and increasing legal immigration—reflects Trump’s broader immigration vision, which aims to protect US borders while simultaneously attracting skilled professionals who can contribute to the nation’s continued success,” said Babbar.