Arizona residents may be interested to know that the H-1B visa has provided economic benefits for both India and the United States. This was the finding of a study conducted by both the University of Michigan and the Center for Global Development. Although researchers noted that the visa could have negative results for some, American workers earned an additional $431 million in 2010 because of the program.
Incomes in both countries combined rose about .36 percent in 2010. The total IT output in both countries also rose about .45 percent in 2010 because of the visa program. Employers can use the H-1B visa to hire foreign workers to perform skilled jobs in the United States. As much as the program may be disliked in the United States, it is also criticized in India and cited as a reason why highly-skilled residents leave the country.
However, the researchers say that this is not necessarily the case. While some workers have migrated to America, there have been an increase in skilled workers who have chosen to stay in India and help grow the economy. The study also found that the visa program has led to decreased hardware and software prices in addition to lower prices for other IT products in both countries.
As a general rule, foreigners who wish to work in the United States must obtain the legal status to do so before being hired. Those who are uncertain of their ability to work in the country may be able to ask an attorney to help clarify their status and apply for a work visa.