Indian Graduate Joshi Moves to Germany Amid US Visa Issues

Joshi, a 26-year-old Indian biotechnology graduate, moved to the United States for a master’s degree at Northwestern University, expecting to build a long-term career. After securing a $75,000-a-year position in 2024 as a scientist at a lab-grown meat startup, her plans changed when her employer could not sponsor her for an H-1B visa.

With her Optional Practical Training expiring in July 2025, Joshi faced limited options and ultimately accepted a job in Germany, relocating in January. Her experience highlights the challenges faced by international graduates and foreign professionals in the US due to increasing uncertainty in immigration policies.

The H-1B visa program, a key route for skilled foreign workers, has seen demand exceed supply, with 85,000 visas available annually against nearly 344,000 eligible registrations for fiscal year 2026. The uncertainty has escalated since the Trump administration introduced tougher measures affecting the program.