Recently, the United States government announced a new policy imposing a100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications. This move has caused widespread concern, particularly among Indian professionals working in the US technology sector.
Many Indian H-1B visa holders who were traveling abroad—especially those on vacation in India—felt compelled to return to the US quickly. The fear stems from uncertainty about how the new fee might affect their visa status if they delay reentry.
It is important to note that the $100,000 fee applies only to new visa applicants. Those currently holding valid H-1B visas or renewing their visas are exempt from this charge. However, the announcement led to confusion and anxiety among visa holders and employers alike.
Major technology companies, including Microsoft, have advised their employees to avoid international travel until the new regulations are clarified and the impact is fully understood.
India’s National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) expressed serious concerns, warning that the hefty fee could disrupt business operations and deter skilled workers from continuing their careers in the US tech industry.
Additionally, there was an incident involving an Emirates flight delay when some Indian passengers disembarked, worried about the potential impact of the new visa fee on their ability to return to the US.
As the situation develops, both employees and employers await further guidance from US immigration authorities to clarify the policy’s implications.
