US introduces $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas, affecting thousands of Indian IT professionals. Get details, company response, impact analysis, and step-by-step updates at quickjobalert.in.
H-1B Visa Fees Hike 2025: Trump’s $100,000 Proclamation & Its Impact on Indian IT Workforce
In a sweeping policy change with major repercussions for tech talent globally, US President Donald Trump has issued a new proclamation introducing a hefty $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas. The rule comes into force on September 21, 2025, and immediately alters the cost and logistics for skilled professionals seeking US opportunities—particularly affecting thousands of Indian IT workers at companies like Infosys, TCS, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Meta. quickjobalert.in
What the H-1B Visa Fee Rule Means
- Effective Date: September 21, 2025
- Fee Amount: $100,000 for each new H-1B visa petition
- Scope: Applies only to new applicants, not renewals or existing visa holders, even those currently outside the US
- Submission: Employers must provide proof of payment with each petition, or applications will be rejected and workers denied entry quickjobalert.in
Who Is Impacted?
- Only new petitions for the H-1B program are affected
- Existing H-1B holders, including renewals, are not required to pay the new fee if returning to the US
- Companies in the US must plan carefully before sponsoring foreign workers from abroad, as the new proclamation bars entry for petitions lacking the mandatory payment quickjobalert.in
Industry and Government Response
- White House: Clarified that the new rule strictly applies to new applicants
- US Chamber of Commerce: Expressed concern over disruption to employees, families, and businesses; currently engaging with the administration for clarity and solutions
- India’s Ministry of External Affairs: Issued a formal statement expressing apprehension over reduced mobility and career opportunities for Indian tech professionals
Company Advisories
- Tech giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Alphabet, and JPMorgan, have urged H-1B staff to remain in the US or return immediately if currently abroad
- Employers in the IT sector now face new documentation requirements, proving payment of the $100,000 fee before filing for a worker abroad
Why This Proclamation Was Issued
President Trump framed the move as a national security measure. He cited ongoing probes into outsourcing firms that heavily rely on the H-1B program, contending that misuse of H-1B visas poses serious risks. The White House’s stance requires that all new H-1B petitions for foreign workers abroad be backed by a $100,000 payment, and lack of compliance will result in application rejection and denial of entry. quickjobalert.in
Impact on Indian IT Sector
- Major Indian IT firms like Infosys and TCS could see substantial challenges in hiring and deploying staff to US projects
- Rising costs may restrict opportunities for young engineers and experienced professionals seeking international exposure
- Families and companies face uncertainty and must prepare for increased documentation and financial planning
H-1B Visa: Quick Overview
- Non-immigrant program for US firms to employ foreign professionals in specialized fields (IT, engineering, healthcare, etc.)
- Initial validity of 3 years, extendable up to 6
- Central to growth and competitiveness for both US and Indian tech industries