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Key Points

A senior US administration official has clarified that the new $100,000 fee only applies to new H1B visa applications, not existing holders. Current visa holders, including those visiting India, don't need to rush back to the US before Sunday. The Indian government is studying the full implications of these changes on tech professionals and families. Both countries recognize that skilled talent mobility contributes significantly to innovation and economic growth.

Key Points: US Official Clarifies New H1B Visa Fee Applies Only to New Applicants

  • New $100,000 annual fee applies only to new H1B petitions
  • Existing visa holders and renewals completely exempt from additional fees
  • Indian nationals abroad don't need emergency return to US
  • 71-72% of H1B visas currently held by Indian professionals
3 min read

H1B visa holders don't need to rush back to US, new rules, including fees, apply to new applicants: Senior US Administration official

Senior US official confirms existing H1B visa holders exempt from $100,000 fee, don't need to rush back to US. New rules target only fresh applications, providing relief.

"Those who are visiting or leaving the country don't need to rush back before Sunday or pay the $100,000 fee - Senior US Administration Official"

Washington DC, September 20

There's significant relief for existing H-1B visa holders, a senior US Administration official clarified on Friday (local time) that the USD 100,000 annual fee targets new H-1B visa petitions, not existing holders or renewals.

According to the official, individuals currently holding H-1B visas, including those visiting India or abroad, don't need to rush back to the US before Sunday or pay the steep $100,000 fee.

"Those who are visiting or leaving the country, or visiting India, don't need to rush back before Sunday or pay the $100,000 fee. $100,000 is only for new and not current existing holders," the official told ANI.

With 71-72% of H-1B visas going to Indians, the move has sparked concerns about its effects on Indian tech professionals and remittances.

The government has advised all its Missions/ Posts to extend all possible help to Indian nationals who are travelling back to the US in the next 24 hours or so.

The government said on Saturday that the full implications of the US decision to impose a USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications are being studied by all concerned, including the Indian industry, and that the measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families.

In a statement regarding restrictions to the US H1B visa programme, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs said the industry in both India and the US has a stake in innovation and creativity and can be expected to consult on the best path forward.

"The Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B visa program. The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry, which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H1B program," the statement said.

https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1969394602282045798

"Industry in both India and the US has a stake in innovation and creativity and can be expected to consult on the best path forward," it added.

The statement said that skilled talent mobility has contributed to innovation and wealth creation in the United States and India, and policymakers will assess recent steps.

"Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India. Policy makers will therefore assess recent steps taken into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries," it said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who works in US immigration law, this clarification was much needed. The initial panic was unnecessary - the fee applies only to new petitions. Still concerning for future applicants though.
A
Ananya R
While relief for current holders is good, $100,000 for new applicants is absolutely ridiculous! This will destroy opportunities for so many talented Indian students and professionals. The US is shooting itself in the foot by restricting skilled immigration.
V
Vikram M
Good that MEA is taking this seriously. H1B program benefits both countries - Indian talent drives innovation in Silicon Valley while remittances help our economy. Hope both governments find a balanced solution.
M
Michael C
The humanitarian aspect mentioned is important. Many families have members split between countries. Sudden policy changes create unnecessary stress and separation anxiety.
P
Priya S
This uncertainty is why many Indian professionals are now considering opportunities in Canada, Europe, or even returning to India. The US needs to provide more stability in immigration policies.

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