India studying implementation of US move to raise H-IB visa fee: MEA
New Delhi, Sep 20: India on Saturday said it is closely examining the implications of the United States’ decision to sharply raise fees for H-1B visas, cautioning that the measure could disrupt families and affect innovation ties between the two countries.
President Donald Trump on Friday signed a proclamation titled “Restriction on entry of certain nonimmigrant workers”, under which employers will have to pay an annual fee of USD 100,000 for each H-1B visa holder. The order, set to take effect from September 21, is being described by American lawmakers and industry leaders as “reckless” and “unfortunate”. Immigration attorneys have already urged H-1B visa holders and their dependents currently outside the US to return immediately to avoid being stranded. Responding to the development, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:
“Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B visa program. The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry, which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H1B program.
Industry in both India and the US has a stake in innovation and creativity and can be expected to consult on the best path forward. Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India. Policy makers will therefore assess recent steps taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families. Government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities.”
The H-1B visa programme has been a vital channel for skilled Indian professionals, particularly in the technology sector, to work in the United States. The sharp increase in costs and the entry restrictions are expected to impact not only Indian IT companies but also major American firms that rely heavily on global talent.
