New Delhi: India has said the suspension of the US Permanent Labor Certification Programme (PERM) could affect the green card process for some Indian professionals, while emphasising the economic benefits of skilled-worker mobility between the two countries.
The Ministry of External Affairs described US Vice President JD Vance’s comments on foreign workers as “unwarranted” and said the movement of skilled professionals supports businesses and economic growth in both countries.
In its response, the ministry said Indian professionals contribute to the US economy through their role in research, innovation and productivity, while helping companies strengthen their competitiveness and create jobs.
It also noted that the benefits extend to US businesses and shareholders, adding that talent mobility remains an area of mutual interest for New Delhi and Washington.
“The steps announced by the US do not advance the shared ambitions of both countries,” the ministry said, calling on stakeholders to recognise the benefits of professional mobility.
The statement followed Vance’s criticism of Microsoft over its use of the PERM programme. He accused the company of using the system to replace American employees with foreign workers and backed the decision to suspend the programme for the technology company.
Vance said Microsoft should prioritise hiring American workers rather than replacing them with what he called “foreign indentured servants.”
PERM is part of the employment-based immigration process through which US employers seek permanent residency for eligible foreign workers. The programme requires employers to meet labour market requirements before proceeding with certain employment-based green card applications.
India also clarified that PERM and the H-1B visa programme are separate immigration mechanisms.
According to the ministry, the suspension of PERM applications does not automatically invalidate existing H-1B visas or change the immigration status of H-1B visa holders and their dependents.
However, employees of affected companies who are pursuing permanent residency could face disruptions or delays in their green card applications, depending on the stage of their cases.
The distinction is significant for Indian professionals working in the US technology sector, many of whom hold H-1B visas while pursuing employment-based permanent residency.
The impact of the suspension will depend on how the restrictions are implemented and how individual applications are affected. For now, India’s statement has focused on clarifying the potential consequences for workers while highlighting the role of skilled professionals in US-India economic ties.
