US Immigration Overhaul Hits Skilled Workers
President Donald Trump has announced a major overhaul of the US legal immigration system, imposing a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications. This move is expected to affect skilled foreign professionals working in the United States, especially those from India. Major companies relying on H-1B talent are responding quickly to adapt to the new rules.
Microsoft, JPMorgan, and Other Companies Advise Employees
Microsoft and JPMorgan have issued urgent guidance for H-1B and H-4 visa holders. Employees currently abroad are advised to return to the US before September 21, when the new rules take effect. Those already in the country are asked to avoid international travel until further notice, as the immigration landscape may change without warning.
Impact on Indian Professionals and IT Industry
The Indian government is evaluating the impact of the new visa rules. Officials note that the fee could disrupt both Indian professionals and the technology industry that heavily relies on their expertise. Stocks of Indian IT companies, including Infosys, Cognizant, and Wipro, have already seen drops as investors react to the news.
NASSCOM Statement on H-1B Fee
NASSCOM highlighted that while Indian companies are adapting to US regulations, high-skill talent remains vital for innovation and competitiveness in America. The organization emphasized that H-1B workers contribute significantly to the US economy and are not a threat to national security. They also expressed concerns over the sudden one-day deadline for implementation, which could create uncertainty for businesses and professionals worldwide.
Potential Economic and Legal Challenges
Immigration experts warn that the $100,000 fee could drastically reduce H-1B applications, making it harder for mid-sized and smaller firms to hire skilled foreign talent. Legal challenges are also possible, as federal law requires visa fees to reflect reasonable costs. Companies may even consider setting up offices outside the US to avoid the fee, potentially impacting America’s global competitiveness.
Looking Ahead
The Trump administration has indicated some flexibility, allowing for case-by-case exemptions if national interest is involved. Meanwhile, businesses, government bodies, and professionals are closely monitoring developments and preparing for significant changes in US immigration policy. The next few months will be crucial in determining how the new visa rules reshape the US labor market and global talent flow.
India Statement on Proposed US H-1B Visa Restrictions
The Government is closely examining reports about the proposed changes to the US H-1B visa program. Indian industry has already shared an initial analysis to clarify some misconceptions. Both Indian and US industries value innovation and creativity and are expected to work together to find the best way forward.
Skilled talent exchanges have greatly supported technology, economic growth, and competitiveness in both countries. Policymakers will consider the mutual benefits and strong people-to-people ties while assessing these steps. The Government also hopes that any disruptions to families caused by this measure are addressed appropriately by the US authorities.
Piyush Goyal to Lead Delegation for Trade Talks in the US on September 22
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will lead a delegation to the United States on September 22 for trade talks, the commerce ministry announced on Saturday. The aim of the visit is to push forward discussions and work toward an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
The delegation will visit New York and include senior officials such as Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary in the ministry. The move follows the September 16 visit of US trade officials to India, where both sides held positive talks on the proposed deal and agreed to step up efforts.
Continuing these discussions, Minister Goyal and his team will meet their US counterparts on September 22 to take the negotiations forward.
US Clarifies H-1B Visa Fee Rules
A senior US official clarified that the $100,000 annual H-1B visa fee announced by President Donald Trump will only apply to new applicants. Current visa holders, whether traveling abroad or returning to India, will not be required to pay the new fee.
The statement comes after widespread concern in India, which accounts for over 70% of H-1B visas. The clarification assures existing holders that they don’t need to rush back before the rule takes effect, as the fee targets only new applicants.
Chamber of Commerce Raises Alarm Over H-1B Visa Cost Hike
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has expressed serious concern over the Trump administration’s new H-1B visa rule, which significantly raises costs for companies that sponsor foreign workers.
In a statement on September 20, the Chamber said it is actively talking with the government to reduce the impact of this steep increase.
“We’re worried about how this will affect employees, their families, and employers. We are working with the administration and our members to understand the full effects and find the best way forward,” the Chamber added.
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