HCLTech Shifts Strategy: Increasing Local Hiring to Reduce H-1B Reliance

HCLTech is actively boosting local recruitment across major international markets, aiming to decrease its dependence on H-1B visa holders. This change, according to CEO C. Vijayakumar, is part of a long-term plan to reinforce the company's global workforce and adapt to shifting immigration and talent challenges in key regions like the U.S. and Europe.

Vijayakumar noted that HCLTech has already significantly increased its local staff in client locations over the past few years. He emphasized the strategy's goal: "Our focus is on building a diverse, locally anchored talent pool that enhances client proximity and operational agility.”

This proactive shift addresses the rising scrutiny of visa programs and tightening work authorization rules. By investing heavily in local talent, the Indian IT giant ensures business continuity and reduces its vulnerability to regulatory changes affecting the international mobility of its employees.

The company, which employs over 225,000 people worldwide, is simultaneously investing in training and upskilling to prepare its workforce for next-generation technologies, including cloud, AI, and cybersecurity.

Industry experts see this as a reflection of a wider trend: Indian IT firms are adopting a "glocal" strategy—balancing global delivery capabilities with strong local execution—to remain resilient and competitive in the evolving geopolitical business environment.