A new policy, initiated by United States President Donald Trump, implementing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, has taken effect today, prompting the Indian Embassy in the US to establish an emergency helpline. The move is concerning, as a large percentage of H-1B visas are granted to Indian citizens, leading to concerns regarding tech professionals and remittances. The USCIS clarified that the fee will be levied only on new H-1B applicants, not on those who filed before September 21.
The Indian Embassy in the US announced the emergency assistance number on X, providing the cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp). This number is specifically for immediate emergency help and not for standard consular questions. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the $100,000 fee is a one-time payment tied to the visa petition, not an annual charge. This applies to new visa applications only, not to renewals or current visa holders.
Leavitt further explained that existing H-1B visa holders currently outside the United States will not be charged the fee to return. They can continue to enter and exit the US as they have previously, unaffected by the recent policy change.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a statement regarding the new rule, indicating the government is studying its effects. The statement noted that the government is reviewing the full implications of the measure. The MEA also acknowledged that there could be humanitarian consequences, and expressed its hope that the US authorities will address any disruptions that arise.