Summary
The U.S. government increased fees for H-1B visas significantly, impacting Indian nationals who often seek these visas for work in America. These changes are part of the Trump administration's efforts to encourage companies to hire American workers instead. Indian tech professionals, who have been major beneficiaries of H-1B visas, now face more difficulties in moving to the U.S. for work.
Key Facts
- The fee for H-1B visas rose dramatically from around $2,000 to $100,000.
- Employers now face higher costs, needing to pay a minimum of $160,000 compared to the previous $60,000 salary for visa holders.
- These changes aim to push U.S. companies to hire local workers instead of foreign ones.
- More than 70% of H-1B visas in 2024 were granted to Indian nationals.
- In the first half of 2025, Tata Consultancy Services was the only Indian company in the top 10 H-1B visa recipients.
- Indian professionals, particularly in IT, have historically been major candidates for these visas.
- The fee increase may limit the opportunities for Indian workers aspiring to move to the U.S. for their careers.
