India’s First Reaction to Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee: Government Warns of Humanitarian and Economic Fallout
In its first official response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proclamation imposing a steep $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, the Indian government has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian and economic consequences of the move. The fee hike, which took effect on September 21, 2025, has already triggered panic among Indian tech workers and students, many of whom are stranded or racing to re-enter the United States before the deadline.
India Raises Alarm Over Humanitarian Impact
Indian officials have warned that the sudden imposition of such a high fee could disproportionately affect middle-class families, early-career professionals, and students aspiring to work in the U.S. technology sector. With Indians accounting for nearly 70% of all H-1B visa holders, the impact is expected to be severe.
A senior official from the Ministry of External Affairs stated, “This abrupt change threatens to disrupt lives, careers, and families. We urge the U.S. administration to reconsider the humanitarian implications of this policy.”
Chaos at Airports and Soaring Flight Fares
Following the announcement, flight fares from India to the U.S. skyrocketed overnight, with one-way tickets from New Delhi to New York jumping from ₹37,000 to ₹80,000. Reports emerged of Indian H-1B holders deboarding flights mid-journey due to confusion over the new rules.
Many travellers, including those visiting India for Durga Puja, scrambled to return to the U.S. before the September 21 deadline. Immigration attorneys warned that missing the cut-off could leave visa holders stranded indefinitely.
Industry and Political Reactions
Indian IT giants such as Infosys, Wipro, and TCS—major users of the H-1B program—are bracing for disruptions in staffing and project delivery. The fee hike is expected to discourage talent mobility and increase costs for employers.
Opposition leaders in India have criticised the government’s handling of the situation. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called the move a “birthday return gift” from Trump to Prime Minister Modi, referencing the timing of the announcement. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi warned that the policy would harm India’s “brightest minds,” while others accused the U.S. of systematically tightening its stance on Indian professionals.
Economic and Diplomatic Implications
The Indian government is reportedly considering diplomatic channels to engage with the U.S. on the issue. Analysts suggest that the fee hike could strain India-U.S. relations and impact bilateral cooperation in technology and education.
Meanwhile, the White House clarified that the $100,000 fee applies only to new H-1B petitions and not to renewals or current holders. However, the damage to public sentiment and market confidence may already be done.
As the dust settles, India is expected to push for a more balanced and humane approach to immigration reform, emphasising the shared value of skilled talent and innovation.