Trump’s Visa Fee Hike Sparks Concerns for Indian IT Professionals

US Visa Fees Hiked: US President Donald Trump's decision to drastically increase H-1B visa fees has sparked protests within the United States. Many lawmakers and community leaders have called it unfair and impractical. They say it could shake the foundation of the tech industry and weaken America's competitiveness globally.

"America will be deprived of talented workers."

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said the move is an attempt to deter skilled professionals who have propelled the US economy to new heights. He said, "These migrant workers not only strengthened our workforce but also created jobs for millions of Americans. While places like Canada and Europe are attracting global talent, the US is doing the opposite."

A major blow to startups and small companies

Ajay Bhutoria, an advisor to former President Joe Biden and a leader of the Asian-American community, warned that this decision will be the biggest blow to small companies and startups. Companies that used to hire international employees for $2,000 to $5,000 could now face financial hardship. Bhuttoria said that this will directly benefit countries like Canada and Europe.

Pressure on the Tech Industry Will Increase

Khanderao Kand of the Foundation for India and the Indian Diaspora says that the software and tech industry, already grappling with challenges like AI and tariffs, will face further pressure. This could impact innovation and growth.

The US Government's View

However, not everyone is opposing this decision. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick welcomed the visa fee hike and said it would benefit hardworking American citizens. According to him, companies should now prioritize graduates from American universities rather than bringing in employees from abroad. Lutnick said, "Only those who truly prove valuable to the country and companies will come to the US."

India Will Be Deepest Impacted

Experts believe that this policy will have the greatest impact on India. Indian software exports, worth approximately $200 billion, depend on H-1B visas. Indian professionals working at companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, as well as engineers at Indian companies like Infosys, Wipro, and HCL, are in a state of confusion.

Employment opportunities will be limited

Analysts say that in addition to large companies, medium and small IT companies will also be affected. This change could limit employment opportunities for Indian IT professionals in the US and deal a serious blow to the industry.