The U.S. government recently proposed a massive $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants as part of a broader visa overhaul. This move has caused a lot of concern for Indian tech professionals, students, and companies.

What’s Changing?

• The $100,000 fee is meant for new H-1B applicants only, not for those renewing or currently holding visas.

• The White House clarified this is a one-time fee, not an annual charge.

• Existing H-1B holders re-entering the U.S. or renewing their visas aren’t affected.

Why Was the Fee Announced?

• According to former U.S. Ambassador Tim Roemer, the high fee is being used as a bargaining chip in ongoing trade negotiations between India and the U.S.

• In the past, similar tactics were used to get India to return to the negotiating table, so this fee could also be up for revision if a trade deal is reached.

• If the two countries fail to make a deal, there are legal options: U.S. courts or Congress could step in and change visa policies.

How Does It Affect India and the U.S.?

• The H-1B visa is important for Indian tech firms and workers to access U.S. jobs.

• Such a steep fee would make it much harder for skilled workers and families to move, potentially hurting both U.S. innovation and Indian professionals.

• Many Indian officials have shared humanitarian and economic concerns, hoping the disruption can be resolved soon.

source moneycontrol