Indian professionals express concern as President Trump imposes a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications, prompting the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., to establish an emergency helpline.
In a move that has raised alarm among Indian professionals, President Donald Trump recently signed a proclamation imposing an annual fee of $100,000 on H-1B visa applications. This decision has significant implications for the many Indian nationals who rely on this visa category for employment in the United States.
In response to the growing concerns, the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., has released an emergency assistance number for Indian nationals who may need immediate support. The Embassy stated, “Indian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp). This number should be used only by Indian nationals seeking immediate emergency assistance and not for routine consular queries.”
The introduction of this steep fee has sparked serious concerns regarding its potential impact on Indian tech professionals and the overall flow of remittances. Notably, approximately 71 percent of all H-1B visas are granted to Indian citizens, making this development particularly significant for the Indian community.
To alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding the new fee, a senior official from the U.S. administration clarified that the $100,000 charge would apply only to new H-1B visa petitions. Existing visa holders and those seeking renewals will not be affected by this fee.
Following the announcement, the White House emphasized on September 20 that the fee is a “one-time fee” applicable solely to new visa applications, aiming to provide clarity amidst the confusion.
In light of the changes, the Indian government has instructed all its Missions and Posts to extend every possible assistance to Indian nationals who are scheduled to return to the United States within the next 24 hours. The Ministry of External Affairs is actively monitoring the situation and is carefully examining the implications of the newly imposed annual fee on the H-1B visa program.
This development has prompted a wave of reactions from various stakeholders, as many are concerned about the future of the H-1B visa program and its impact on the Indian workforce in the U.S. The Indian Embassy’s establishment of a helpline reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate support for affected individuals.
As the situation continues to evolve, Indian nationals are encouraged to stay informed and reach out for assistance if needed. The implications of this new fee could reshape the landscape for H-1B visa applicants, particularly those from India, in the coming months.
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