India Examines Impact of Increased H-1B Visa Application Fees: MEA

Speedy Summary

• The U.S. has raised the annual fee for H-1B visa applications to $100,000, as per a proclamation signed by President Donald Trump on September 19, 2025.
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement expressing concern over the economic and humanitarian implications of this move.
• MEA highlighted that skilled talent exchanges between India and the U.S. significantly contribute to innovation, technology progress, competitiveness, and economic growth in both nations.
• Nasscom stated that Indian tech companies will be impacted due to disruptions in business continuity for onshore projects. Additionally, they raised concerns regarding the one-day deadline for implementation (September 21) causing uncertainty for businesses globally.
• MEA urged U.S. authorities to address potential disruptions caused by this policy.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The hike in H-1B visa request fees is likely to strain India-U.S. technology collaborations while posing immediate challenges for Indian IT firms operating in the United States. Workers reliant on international mobility could experience significant disruptions due to increased costs and hasty timelines for implementation.

While mutual benefits derived from talent mobility remain evident-contributing positively to innovation and economies-this policy could limit access not only for businesses but also create humanitarian concerns such as family separations or logistical challenges impacting professionals abroad.

India’s measured approach emphasizes balancing bilateral benefits while addressing potential adversities affecting key sectors like IT services-a critical pillar of India’s economy with strong ties overseas. How this unfolds depends largely on whether adjustments are made by U.S policymakers following considerations raised globally.

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