India Responds to New $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee: 'Humanitarian Consequences' Ahead

Mon Oct 20 2025 23:12:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Indian government warns that the new fee imposed on H-1B visa applications could disrupt families and harm bilateral ties.

India has expressed serious concerns over the recently imposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications by the US, labeling it as a move with potential 'humanitarian consequences.' This fee is over 60 times the current charge and is set to take effect soon. A significant portion of these visas are issued to Indian workers, who make up more than 70% of H-1B visa recipients. The change could lead to severe disruptions in the lives of families, according to India's Ministry of External Affairs, which is seeking collaboration from US authorities to address these issues. Tensions have risen amidst trade negotiations between the two nations, which further complicate the relationship.

The Indian government has said a new $100,000 (£74,000) fee for applicants seeking US skilled worker visas will have humanitarian consequences.

President Donald Trump ordered the new fee for H-1B visa applications, which is more than 60 times the amount currently charged, to go into effect on 21 September.

Workers from India receive by far the most skilled visas in the programme, at just more than 70% of those issued.

Some US tech companies reportedly advised employees with H-1B visas to stay in the US or, if they were out of the country, to try to return immediately. The White House then clarified the fee will not apply to current or renewal applications.

A statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs warned that this fee would cause disruptions for families. The government emphasized that the exchange of skilled workers has contributed enormously to both nations and hopes the US will rectify this situation.

Since Trump imposed tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil last month, trade relations have been under strain. There are significant import and export numbers between the two nations, with India importing $87.3 billion worth of goods from the US in 2024.

The planned changes have led to considerable uncertainty for businesses and professionals, according to India's leading trade body, Nasscom. The White House's justification for the new fee centers around concerns of visa abuse and wage undercutting.

Despite the tense climate, the White House offered room for case-by-case exemptions in the national interest.