US bill removes green card cap for STEM doctorates, introduces startup visa

An immigration reform passed by the US House of Representatives recently, could benefit thousands of Indians who are looking to move and work in the United States.

The House version of the America COMPETES Act features a host of immigration-related changes for budding entrepreneurs and STEM doctorates, allowing them easier access to a green card.

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The Act will amend the Immigration and Nationality Act for providing startup visas. The 'W' category visa will be classified into three categories namely W-1, W-2 and W-3.

W-1 visa will be given to foreign nationals who have ownership interest in startups, a W-2 visa is for staff critical for operation of the startup and W-3 visa for the spouses and children of W-1 and W-2 visa holders.

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The Act also removes green card limits for those who hold a doctoral degree in STEM disciplines, from a US university or an equivalent foreign institution. STEM students could claim 'dual intent' status, meaning they could declare their interest in pursuing a career in the US after graduation, rather than first returning to their home country.

The America COMPETES Act essentially aims to take on China to attract innovation and entrepreneurship to build stronger supply chains. Data shows that America loses out to countries like Canada when it comes to a tailored start-up visa. The reform therefore aims to fill the gap and its a win-win for Indians.