Major Blow for India: Trump Imposes $100K H-1B Visa Fee

US President Donald Trump has proposed a $100,000 annual fee for H-1B work visa holders, causing widespread concern in India. The move is seen as a significant setback for Indian professionals, who make up the majority of H-1B visa recipients. According to U.S. immigration data, over 200,000 Indians received H-1B visas in 2024, accounting for nearly 71% of all holders.

Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, accusing it of failing to protect Indian workers abroad. Sharing a report on the negative impact of the fee hike, Gandhi said, “Once again, we say India’s Prime Minister is weak.”

On social media, many Indian users expressed anger, calling the move an indirect U.S. sanction on Indian talent. The proposed fee could discourage American companies from hiring Indian professionals due to the high financial burden, potentially affecting thousands of workers in the tech, healthcare, and engineering sectors.

Indian media also raised concerns, warning that the fee could make it harder for skilled Indian workers to access opportunities in the U.S., a country that has long relied on their expertise.

Although Trump is not currently in office, his continued influence on U.S. immigration policies remains strong. If the proposal moves forward, it could have long-lasting consequences for Indian professionals and India-U.S. relations.