US Congress Revives Debate on H-1B Visa Programme Amid Labour Shortages and Demographic Concerns

Washington, March 20: The H-1B visa programme, a major avenue for Indian professionals to work in the US, is back at the centre of debate in the US Congress this week. Lawmakers discussed visa reform to support economic growth and address labour shortages caused by an ageing population. Policy makers and experts at a US Congress Joint Economic Committee hearing questioned whether the current lottery-based system is the right one. Chairman David Schweikert said the US is facing demographic challenges that could undermine economic stability in the long term. "Today, the number of retirees is increasing while the number of working adults is stagnating. This is not sustainable and is a threat to our economic security." Key discussions and suggestions include: Changes to the H-1B system.