India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Saturday, September 20, 2025, that it is thoroughly evaluating the far-reaching consequences of the United States’ recent decision to dramatically increase H-1B visa application fees. This development follows President Donald Trump’s proclamation on Friday, September 19, 2025, which sets the H-1B visa fee at an unprecedented $100,000 annually, marking a significant escalation in his administration’s immigration policies.
The Indian technology industry has promptly initiated its own assessment of the H-1B program, aiming to clarify existing perceptions surrounding its impact. Industry body Nasscom has expressed profound concerns, highlighting that the $100,000 visa fee hike will severely affect Indian tech services companies. They anticipate considerable disruptions to business continuity, especially for onshore projects heavily reliant on H-1B visa holders. Nasscom also strongly criticized the extremely tight implementation deadline of September 21, noting it creates immense uncertainty for global businesses, professionals, and students worldwide. Reports indicate that this new annual visa fee could exceed 60% of the annual salaries for many Indian workers currently in the U.S. on H-1B visas, underscoring the severe financial burden this policy will impose.
The MEA emphasized the crucial role of skilled talent mobility and exchange in fostering technology development, innovation, economic growth, and wealth creation for both the United States and India. They stated that policymakers on both sides should carefully consider these mutual benefits, which are strongly supported by robust people-to-people connections, when reviewing the latest policy changes.
Beyond economic implications, the MEA also highlighted the potential humanitarian impact of the fee increase, noting the likely disruption and hardship caused to families. The Indian government expressed a strong hope that U.S. authorities would address these challenges to mitigate the adverse effects on individuals and families.
The Ministry of External Affairs, through its spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, also publicly shared an official statement on social media regarding these restrictions, signaling the government’s active engagement with the issue.