India expressed concern over US President Donald Trump’s proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on every H-1B worker entering the United States, warning that the move could have humanitarian consequences
by disrupting families. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it had taken note of reports about the sweeping changes to the H-1B visa programme and that the full implications of the measure are being studied in consultation with all stakeholders, including Indian industry.
“Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India,” the MEA said.
“Policy makers will therefore assess recent steps taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries,” the statement added.
The ministry cautioned, however, that the new rule was likely to create distress for families of Indian professionals working in the US.
“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,” it said.
Donald Trump’s New Visa Wall
Under the order signed by Donald Trump, no petition filed for an H-1B worker outside the US will be approved unless the sponsoring employer pays $100,000 upfront. Without proof of payment, stamping will be refused and entry blocked.
The proclamation, which takes effect on September 21, has already been dubbed a “visa wall” that could reset the flow of talent, technology and jobs between India and the US. Workers already inside the US on valid H-1B status are not directly affected, but those travelling abroad will be required to comply with the new fee on re-entry.
Mutual Stakes In Innovation, MEA Says
The MEA emphasised that industry in both India and the US had a shared stake in fostering innovation and would continue consultations to chart the best path forward. It stressed that the movement of skilled professionals has long been central to India-US cooperation in technology and trade.
The MEA noted, “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.”
