A new executive order from US President Donald Trump introduces a $100,000 annual application fee for H-1B visas. This rule is expected to affect a substantial number of skilled foreign workers, with a notable impact on Indian nationals.
The revised H-1B Visa rule requires a $100,000 annual fee for all applications submitted after the announcement, including those that are additions to existing petitions. Employers must provide proof of payment, which is a prerequisite for petition acceptance. This regulation applies to all applicants outside the US seeking an H-1B visa, with exceptions reserved for cases of national interest.
The H-1B program, designed to attract highly skilled international workers, has been the subject of ongoing examination. The new fee is particularly pertinent to Indian IT professionals, who represent the largest beneficiary group. Indian IT service companies, such as Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, and Wipro, have extensively used H-1B visas to train developers.
Key considerations for Indian applicants:
* The new fee is expected to have a major impact on Indian workers, as they constitute a significant percentage of H-1B approvals.
* Individuals graduating from US universities (Master’s/PhD) and employees of leading US tech companies are anticipated to be the primary beneficiaries.
* The $100,000 fee represents a significant rise compared to previous fees.
* Applicants must be highly skilled and possess qualifications that are difficult to find among US workers.
* Smaller firms and outsourcing consultancies are likely to reduce or eliminate H-1B filings.
* The fee structure may increase the financial burden and potentially reduce job opportunities for Indian students and recent graduates aiming for US employment.