US President Donald Trump, on Friday, signed a proclamation increasing the fee for H-1B visas to a steep $100,000 annually. Currently, the H-1B visa fee ranges from about $2000 to $5000, depending on employer size and other costs. The visas are valid for three years and can be renewed for another three years.
The move will severely affect Indian techies, who are among the main beneficiaries of the visa programme. Immigration attorneys and companies have asked the H-1B visa holders or their family members currently outside America for work or vacation to return within the next 24 hours or risk being stranded and denied entry into the US after the proclamation comes into effect from 12:01 am September 21.
Many took to social media to express their disappointment over the decision, while there were some who said this would help India retain its tech talents.
A user said this would be the end of "USA dream" for most of the Indians.
"India set to hit most hard by this move, as around 70% of #h1bvisa visa holders are Indians," observed a user.
"Change in H-1B visa rules is a directed sanction toward India by Trump administration. This indicates that the recent Trump-Modi phone call did not please Trump," pointed out a user.
It has been observed that "This is huge H-1B visa changes are forcing global talent to rethink plans, and companies are scrambling to comply fast. Employees, especially from India, are feeling the pinch."
However, there were also some who chose to see a silver lining in the move.
According to a X user, "For India, this challenge can actually turn into an opportunity. If the government and industry leaders invest in building world-class tech hubs at home, the same bright talent that once moved to the U.S. could drive innovation and growth right here in India."
"The increase in H-1B visa fees could bring an unexpected advantage for India.
Now, talented youth will choose to stay here instead of rushing abroad.
This will reduce brain drain and allow the nation to retain its “cream talent,” pointed out another.
"The biggest success story of Indian IT is coming to an end
What Modi ji couldn't do, Trump did with his one order by increasing fees of H1-B visa - It will help India to retain its tech talents in India.
Now, govt should wake up and give tax insentives, Good infra and return on income Tax paid so that people stay in India by choice, not by force," wrote another user.