New Delhi/Washington, D.C. — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global tech and immigration sectors, U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly proposed raising the H-1B visa fee to a staggering $100,000. The H-1B visa, widely used by Indian IT professionals and companies to work in the United States, has long been a cornerstone of India-U.S. tech collaboration. The proposed hike, if implemented, could drastically impact skilled migration and outsourcing models, particularly affecting Indian firms and workers.
Industry experts have expressed concern over the financial and operational implications of the fee increase. Many fear that such a steep hike could deter companies from hiring foreign talent, disrupt ongoing projects, and strain bilateral economic ties. Indian IT giants like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro are expected to lobby against the move, citing its potential to destabilize the global tech ecosystem.
Meanwhile, back home in India, political tensions flared as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a recent rally, Gandhi labeled Modi a “weak PM,” accusing him of failing to protect Indian interests on the global stage, particularly in light of the proposed U.S. visa policy shift. He argued that Modi’s foreign policy lacks assertiveness and has left Indian professionals vulnerable to international economic pressures.
The BJP responded by dismissing Gandhi’s remarks as “political theatrics,” asserting that the Prime Minister’s diplomatic engagements have strengthened India’s global standing. However, the timing of Trump’s announcement and Gandhi’s criticism has reignited debates over India’s strategic posture and its ability to safeguard the interests of its diaspora.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on Washington and New Delhi, awaiting clarity on the visa policy and its broader geopolitical ramifications.