India protests US green card restrictions, hits back at Vance remarks

India has lodged a formal protest against recent restrictions on green card processing by major American technology companies, signaling growing friction over visa and immigration policies between the two nations.

The Indian government objected to what it described as a freeze on permanent labor certification filings, arguing the measure contradicts shared commitments to facilitating skilled workforce mobility. Officials in New Delhi emphasized that such restrictions run counter to the economic partnership both countries have worked to strengthen.

The diplomatic pushback follows inflammatory remarks characterizing Indian workers in derogatory terms, which Indian officials said reflect a troubling shift in the tone of the US immigration debate. The comments have drawn scrutiny from New Delhi's foreign ministry, which underscored that Indian talent has made significant contributions to the American technology sector and broader economy.

The row highlights tensions over H-1B visa policies and green card allocations, issues that have grown increasingly contentious as the incoming US administration signals tougher stances on immigration. India, which has long advocated for merit-based immigration policies favoring skilled professionals, views the current restrictions as discriminatory and economically counterproductive.

Official channels between the two countries remain engaged, though the dispute underscores the challenges facing bilateral relations in an era of shifting US immigration priorities.