US H-1B Fee Hike Hits Indian Women’s Career Dreams With Crushing Financial Burden

International News: The US H-1B visa has been a major dream for Indian youth seeking a career abroad. Until now, the fee for this visa was a few thousand dollars, but now US President Donald Trump has increased it to $100,000, or approximately ₹8.8 million. This amount is so large that it will be extremely difficult for companies to sponsor initial candidates. And this will have the greatest impact on women.

Male dominance continues

Men still dominate H-1B visa holders. According to fiscal year 2024 data, 74% of those who expanded or changed jobs were men, while only 26% were women. The share of women among new applicants increased slightly to 37%. This means women were gradually making progress, but the new fees have hindered their progress.

Difference in starting salary

The new fees pose a major challenge for early-stage workers. Women typically earn lower salaries than men under the H-1B. If companies are required to pay a million-dollar fee, they will likely prioritize those with higher salaries. This will further reduce women's chances.

Women's earnings gap

Data from fiscal year 2024 shows that women earned less than men at every level. At the bottom, women earned an average salary of $71,000, while men earned $80,000. At the middle level, women earned $91,000 and men $99,000. Even at the top level, women stagnated at $125,000, while men reached $131,000. For companies, this difference will determine whom to sponsor.

Deep impact on Indian women

This gender gap impacts Indian women the most. China and India together account for 83% of H-1B holders. While men and women are nearly equal in China, women lag behind in India. According to FY24 data, 75% of Indian women who found new jobs were under 35 years of age. This means they face a significant obstacle at the very beginning of their careers.

New thinking of companies

Now, companies will think twice before sponsoring. If they have to pay a million-dollar fee, they'll choose the candidate who is immediately more productive and can earn more. Women earn lower salaries at the entry level, so hiring them will prove more costly for companies. This makes the American dream increasingly distant for Indian women.

Difficult road ahead

The H-1B visa has been the biggest door to careers abroad for Indian youth, especially women. But Trump's new decision has half-closed that door. Now, it will be more difficult than ever for Indian women to find jobs in the US. The question is whether this policy will change in the future, or will Indian women have to find another path to their dreams.