While US might have an upper hand in tariff war, China seems to be scoring ahead in visa game. Beijing’s K visa, which is set to take effect from October 1, is being billed as a strategic tool to attract young foreign science and technology talent. The order will take affect amid the H-1B visa chaos caused by the Donald Trump administration, driving away foreign talent from working in US companies in the long-run.The K visa specifically targets graduates in STEM fields and early-career researchers with at least a bachelor’s degree from recognized institutions worldwide. Unlike China’s existing work visas, it does not require applicants to secure a local employer before applying. Holders will be able to engage in education, research, entrepreneurship, and business activities, making it an especially flexible option for young professionals and innovators, according to a report by China Briefing.
A sharp contrast with US visa curbs
The launch comes as the US tightens its immigration policies. Trump’s latest move to restrict the H-1B visa, long a magnet for skilled foreign workers, mostly Indian, has fueled concerns among international students and professionals. China, by contrast, is sending the message: qualified talent is welcome here.In fact, US categorically said that the motive behind its H-1B move was driven by cheap “foreign labour” replacing American workers in several fields including STEM.“Unemployment among recent computer science graduates has reached 6.1 per cent and 7.5 per cent for computer engineering graduates – more than double the rates for biology or art history majors. The number of foreign STEM workers in the United States has more than doubled between 2000 and 2019, while overall STEM employment only increased 44.5 per cent during that time,” it said.In contrast, China’s K visa specifically targets young foreign science and technology professionals, and is seen as a part of Beijing’s broader push to lower barriers for global talent and channel their skills into China’s innovation drive.
What’s in it for India?
US government figures show that Indians account for over 70% of the 85,000 H-1B visas granted annually, with many beneficiaries having spent decades building their lives and careers in America. The H-1B visa move would act as a deterrent for the future generations looking to go out of the country for work.With India-China relations showing signs of easing through trade and border dialogues, and both nations facing common trade friction with the US over Russian oil purchases, Indian professionals may now see new opportunities emerging in the market next door.
