The Trump administration in the US has raised the fees for H-1B visas, creating widespread concern across the world, especially in India.
This is another revision of the visa rules by the Trump government.
According to a Reuters report, on Tuesday (September 23, 2025), the administration released a proposal that gives preference to highly skilled and high-salaried workers in US companies.
This announcement came soon after the White House revealed a $100,000 fee for new visa applications.
Details of the New H-1B Visa Fee
The White House clarified that the $100,000 fee will apply only to new H-1B applications. It will not affect people already in the current lottery system.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt explained that this is not an annual fee. Instead, it is a one-time fee, required only at the time of applying.
This decision is part of Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) and “America First” agenda.
However, the sudden announcement also led to confusion and rumors before the clarification was made.
India’s Response to the New Rules
India reacted by urging the US to deal with the issue in a fair and balanced way.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Indian industry has already given a preliminary analysis, pointing out some concerns about the H-1B program.
He also highlighted that industries in both India and the US benefit from innovation and creativity, and both nations are looking for a fair solution to the matter.
