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Key Points

India has expressed serious concerns about the US decision to impose a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas. The Ministry of External Affairs warns that this move could have significant humanitarian consequences for families and disrupt skilled talent mobility. Indian officials are actively studying the implications and consulting with industry bodies like Nasscom. Experts suggest this policy might accelerate the development of Global Capability Centres in India to address talent shortages.

Key Points: India Warns US H-1B Visa Fee Hike Risks Family Disruption

  • India studying full implications of new US H-1B visa restrictions
  • Tech industry expects mutual consultation on visa policy
  • Potential humanitarian consequences for cross-border families
  • New fee might trigger global capability centers in India
2 min read

US decision on H-1B visa fee hike likely to have humanitarian consequences: Govt

India highlights potential humanitarian impact of $100,000 H-1B visa fee, warns of tech talent and family mobility challenges

"Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development - MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal"

New Delhi, Sep 20

India on Saturday said that the fallout of the US administration's decision to impose a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas from September 21 is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families which it hoped can be addressed suitably by the US authorities.

"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," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

The spokesperson asserted that 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.

"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 taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

"This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families. Government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities," the statement added.

According to government sources, New Delhi is in touch with the Indian Embassy in Washington and is also holding consultations with the leading tech industry body Nasscom here.

The new H-1B costs are expected to affect the US companies the most, as these rely heavily on Indians for specialised and high-skilled tech roles.

According to experts, this may also trigger a new wave of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India to meet the shortage of talent in the US after the new visa fee rule.

Indians hold the highest number of H1-B visas, followed by China.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I understand the need for immigration reform, this seems like a targeted move against Indian tech professionals. We contribute significantly to the US economy and innovation. This fee hike will hurt American companies more than anyone else.
M
Michael C
As someone working in Silicon Valley, I've seen firsthand how Indian talent drives innovation here. This policy might backfire and push more companies to set up GCCs in India instead. Brain drain might actually reverse!
A
Ananya R
The humanitarian aspect is being overlooked completely. Families with children in US schools, homes, and established lives will be torn apart. This isn't just about economics - it's about human lives and dreams 💔
S
Siddharth J
Maybe this is the push India needed to retain our best talent domestically. Instead of depending on US visas, we should create more opportunities here. Every crisis presents an opportunity for growth 🇮🇳
K
Kavya N
The government's response is measured and diplomatic. Hope the bilateral talks lead to a reasonable solution. The India-US relationship is too important to be damaged by such unilateral decisions.

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