Trump H-1B Visa Order: Rising Costs Put Indian Workers at Risk?

Trump H-1B Visa Order:

The United States has announced a major change to its H-1B visa program, creating shockwaves in the global technology industry. On September 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation increasing the annual H-1B visa fee to $100,000 per worker. This steep hike, which will apply for each of the three years of the visa’s duration, could push the total cost of a visa up to $300,000.

Trump H-1B Visa Order:

Lawmakers and business leaders have criticised the U.S. decision as “reckless,” warning it will hurt innovation and block skilled global talent. The proclamation, titled “Restriction on Entry of Certain Non-Immigrant Workers,” labels misuse of the H-1B program a “national security threat.”

The policy will hit Indian professionals hardest. USCIS data shows Indians receive over 70% of H-1B visas, and companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google depend heavily on them. Industry body Nasscom warned that the one-day implementation deadline creates “serious uncertainty” for businesses, professionals, and students.

Indian political leaders have reacted strongly. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called the move proof of India’s “weak foreign policy” and criticised the government for failing to prepare.

The new fee takes more than 60% of the average annual salary of Indian tech workers in the U.S., making it unaffordable for many. Immigration lawyers have advised H-1B holders outside the country to return immediately to avoid being stranded.

Experts caution that the policy could push global talent away from the U.S., giving India a chance to grow as a hub for research, patents, and startups. Cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune may see more opportunities as talent returns home.

While the U.S. government argues the measure protects American jobs, critics say it risks isolating the country from the very talent that drives its tech sector.

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