Washington/New Delhi — The White House on Saturday moved swiftly to ease concerns after President Donald Trump ordered a steep $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the charge is a one-time levy, applicable only to fresh petitions, and not retroactive.
Leavitt emphasised that the rule does not affect existing H-1B visa holders, whether currently in the United States or travelling abroad. “Those already on H-1B visas, including individuals travelling abroad, will not be asked to pay this amount upon re-entry,” she said in a statement on X, noting that the fee will apply from the next visa lottery cycle.
The clarification has provided relief to thousands of professionals, particularly Indians, who represent nearly 75 percent of all H-1B visa holders in the U.S. IT sector. Initial reports of the order had triggered confusion and anxiety among professionals and their families, many of whom feared disruptions to employment and travel.
Reacting to the development, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) instructed embassies and consulates to assist nationals travelling to the United States within the next 24 hours. In its official statement, the MEA acknowledged that the fee hike could carry humanitarian and financial implications, potentially unsettling families and complicating long-term career plans.
“The government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the U.S. H-1B visa program. The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including Indian industry, which has already issued an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions,” the ministry said.
The MEA further highlighted that India and the United States share a mutual interest in innovation and technology-driven growth. It underscored that skilled migration has historically strengthened both economies by enhancing competitiveness, driving innovation, and deepening people-to-people ties.
“Policy makers will assess the recent steps by taking into account the mutual benefits of strong talent mobility between the two countries,” the ministry said, adding that consultations between Indian and American industries are expected to determine a constructive path forward.
The H-1B programme has long been a cornerstone of the U.S.-India technology partnership, with Indian professionals playing a pivotal role in the growth of Silicon Valley and beyond. The new visa fee marks a significant policy shift, one that both governments are now working to balance with economic and social realities.
