Washington, September 21 (Daily Kiran News): The United States has officially enforced its new H-1B visa regulations starting today, September 21 (US time). The changes include a steep application fee of $100,000 (around ₹88 lakh) for new applicants, following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Friday.
White House Clarification
Amid rising confusion, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt clarified that the $100,000 charge is a one-time fee, applicable only to new H-1B visa applications. It does not apply to renewals or to existing visa holders.
She added that those currently holding an H-1B visa will not be charged this fee even if they temporarily leave the US and re-enter. The revised rules will first apply in the upcoming H-1B lottery cycle.
Indian Embassy Issues Helpline
The Indian Embassy in Washington has issued an emergency helpline number for Indian citizens affected by the changes. Those in need of urgent assistance can contact +1-202-550-9931 (also on WhatsApp). The embassy clarified that this number should be used only for emergencies, not for routine consular queries.
Impact on Indian Professionals
The move has caused concern among Indian professionals, who make up the largest share of H-1B visa holders in the US. On average, the visa earlier cost about ₹5 lakh for a three-year period, renewable once for six years. Under the new rule, the cost could rise to ₹5.28 crore over six years.
In 2023, 1.91 lakh Indians received H-1B visas, and the number rose to 2.07 lakh in 2024. Most work in technology, healthcare, and research sectors. With around 85,000 new visas issued annually, Indian applicants dominate, followed by citizens of China, South Korea, and other countries.
The announcement has led to uncertainty, with several major US companies reportedly advising employees abroad to return by September 20.
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