India raises visa concerns with U.S. amid broad strategic alignment

India has voiced concerns over U.S. visa policies, marking a rare critical note in its diplomatic engagement with the United States. During his visit, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to reassure India, stating that the two democracies are aligned on all major issues defining the modern era.

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I apprised Secretary Rubio of challenges that legitimate travellers face in respect of visa issuance.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar conveyed India's challenges regarding U.S. visa issuance to Secretary Rubio. He emphasized that while cooperation exists to manage illegal and irregular migration, the smooth flow of legal mobility, particularly for travelers and professionals, should not be negatively impacted. Jaishankar specifically noted the critical role visas play in fostering U.S.-India technological cooperation.

The U.S. visa crackdown comes amid heightened restrictions and fees on H-1B visas, widely used by Indian tech workers, under President Donald Trump's administration. Recent policy changes also require applicants for permanent residency, even those legally in the U.S., to leave the country for processing, potentially separating families. These measures have been influenced by nativist sentiments and criticisms suggesting Indian workers displace American jobs.

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While we cooperate to deal with illegal and irregular mobility, our expectation is that legal mobility should not be adversely impacted as a consequence.

Rubio, responding to questions about racist remarks targeting Indians, acknowledged that "every country in the world has stupid people" but highlighted the contributions of immigrants to the U.S. He characterized the immigration reforms as a response to a broader "migratory crisis" in the U.S., rather than being India-specific.

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Every country in the world has stupid people.

Despite these visa-related frictions, Rubio described India as a "crucial strategic partner" and emphasized the shared values and democratic foundations of both nations. He asserted that the U.S. and India are strategically aligned on key issues shaping the 21st century, reinforcing the strong bilateral relationship that has developed over the past two decades.

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Our nation has been enriched by people who come to our country.