India Criticizes New US H-1B Visa Fee as Disruptive

Fri Sep 26 2025 11:24:50 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Indian government expressed concern over a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applicants, warning it could have significant humanitarian impacts.

Following an announcement by President Trump to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applicants, the Indian government warned of potential humanitarian consequences. Over 70% of issued visas go to Indian workers, and the change could disrupt families and skilled workforce exchange. The H-1B program is essential for US firms, allowing temporary employment of foreign workers. India's external affairs minister hopes for a reconsideration of this policy amid ongoing trade tensions between the two nations.

The Indian government has said a new $100,000 (£74,000) fee for applicants seeking US skilled worker visas will have humanitarian consequences.

President Donald Trump on Friday ordered the new fee for H-1B visa applications, which is more than 60 times the amount currently charged, to go into effect on 21 September.

Workers from India receive by far the most skilled visas in the programme, representing just over 70% of those issued.

Some US tech companies reportedly advised employees with H-1B visas to stay in the US or, if they were out of the country, to try to return immediately. The White House clarified that the fee will not apply to current visas or renewal applications.

A statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs warned that the fee would disrupt families and called for US authorities to address the issue. Officials noted that the exchange of skilled workers has significantly benefited both nations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties.

With ongoing trade negotiations strained by recent tariffs imposed by the US, India's commerce minister is slated to visit the US for discussions shortly. The announcement of the fee has created considerable uncertainty for businesses, professionals, and students globally, according to India's leading trade body, Nasscom.

The White House contends that the H-1B visas are being misused to undermine American wages and outsource IT jobs but allows for exemptions deemed in the national interest.

Overall, just under 400,000 H-1B visas were approved in the last cycle, with Amazon and Tata Consultancy Services receiving the highest approvals. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft advised employees on precautions regarding re-entry into the US amid the impending changes.