H1B One Workforce Training Programme: Are Indian H1B Visa Holders Eligible to Apply?

The US Department of Labor has announced an investment of $150 million in the H1B One Workforce Training Programme. The training programme aims at re-skilling middle- to high-skilled H-1B occupations within key sectors in the US economy. The areas of focus include information technology and cyber security, advanced manufacturing and transportation.

Trainings will be provided through public and private partnerships to individuals to help them build on their skills especially in progressive areas such as cyber security, advanced manufacturing, and transportation sectors. “Public-private partnerships will leverage resources across federal, state and local funding streams, as well as from the private sector to support training, employment services and supportive services to maximize access to employment opportunities,” said a statement from the department.

Who Can Apply for H1B One Workforce Training Programme?

The statement issued by the US Department of Labor says that to apply for this programme, applicants must keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Eligible participants must be at least 17 years old.
• They cannot be enrolled in secondary school within a local educational agency.
• The programme is for unemployed and underemployed individuals seeking full-time employment.
• Workers who are looking to update or upskill to retain employment or advance into middle- to high-skilled positions can also apply.
• Veterans, military spouses and transitioning service members will receive Priority of Service.

Is the H1B One Workforce Training Programme for Indian H1B Visa Holders?

The official website of the US Department of Labor mentions that these training grants have been introduced to prepare Americans for high skill jobs, thus reducing the dependence on foreign labor. “The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights,” says a statement from the US Department of Labor.