What’s inside:
This article covers the recent changes to the H1-B visa application fee by the US President and what it means for current and future visa holders, especially Indians.
US President Donald Trump has announced a significant change regarding the H1-B visa. The application fee for this visa has been raised to $100,000, which is around 84 lakh rupees. This announcement has caused concern among many Indian workers in the US, as they hold the majority of these visas.
Following the announcement, major American companies have urged their employees to return to the US by September 20. To address the confusion, the White House issued a statement clarifying the situation regarding the new visa fees.
According to the White House, the new fee applies only to new H1-B visa applications, not to those who already hold the visa or are currently outside the US. Existing visa holders can travel in and out of the country without facing the new fee. The fee is a one-time charge and not an annual fee.
Here are the key points to understand:
- The $100,000 fee is only for new applications.
- Current H1-B visa holders are not required to pay this fee for re-entry.
- This fee does not apply to visa renewals.
As the situation develops, companies are advising employees traveling to India to return soon to avoid the new fee. The US administration has reassured that there is no need for those currently in India to rush back before the weekend.
Summary:
- The H1-B visa application fee has increased to $100,000.
- This fee applies only to new visa applications, not existing holders.
- Current visa holders can travel without paying extra fees.
- The fee is a one-time charge, not an annual fee.
- Companies are advising employees in India to return to the US soon.
