The H-1B Visa Struggles of David Zheng: A Journey of Uncertainty

A Struggle for Stability: The H-1B Visa Experience of David Zheng

For the past three years, luck has eluded David Zheng in his attempts to secure the coveted H-1B work visa in the United States. He is not alone in this struggle; countless immigrants face the same daunting challenge each year, as the number of applicants far exceeds the limited availability of these visas. The lottery system, designed to allocate these opportunities, leaves a vast majority without the chance to realize their dreams.

David, originally from China, pursued higher education in the U.S. and earned a master’s degree in computer science in 2021. His ambition was to remain in the United States and contribute to the tech industry, but time was running out. His student visa permitted him to work in the country for only three years following graduation. As that deadline approached, he felt the pressure mounting.

In July of this year, while juggling a full-time job, David made the difficult decision to enroll in another master’s program. This step was essential for him to maintain his legal status in the country he hoped to call home. “Sometimes, I wonder if this country truly wants people like me,” he confided, reflecting the uncertainty that many in his position feel.

Historically, the United States has been a beacon for young Chinese individuals seeking educational opportunities. Before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, approximately 80 percent of these students returned to China, where the prospects seemed more promising. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Many now wish to remain in the U.S. due to the increasing authoritarianism of their home government, a faltering economy, and a bleak job market.

The U.S. immigration process, characterized by its unpredictability and often prolonged timelines, has left many Chinese émigrés in a state of limbo. I had the opportunity to interview six individuals navigating this complex situation and also communicated with several others grappling with the challenges of securing visas to establish their professional lives in the United States. Their experiences were often marked by frustration and emotional turmoil, with many describing the process as a “hell” or a “nightmare.”

Some of those I spoke with chose to use only their first names due to fears of retribution from the Chinese government or concerns that their candidness could jeopardize their visa applications. A significant number of them expressed regret for not considering alternatives like Canada or other nations that offer a more transparent path to permanent residency and citizenship.