MEA warns of 'humanitarian consequences' in first reaction to Trump's H-1B visa fee hike targeting India

The steep hike in the annual fee for H-1B visas could have humanitarian consequences and disrupt families, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement reacting to the development. 

Reacting to the hike, MEA's official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement that the government has seen reports about the restrictions on the US H1B visa programme. "The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry, which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H1B programme," he said in a statement.

Noting the visa fee hike could affect families, Jaiswal said that the "government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities."

He added that industries in both nations have a stake in the matter and "can be expected to consult on the best path forward".  

Noting mobility of skilled talent has contributed enormously to economic growth in both nations, it added, "Policymakers will therefore assess recent steps taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries."

Considered a move targeting India, US President Donald Trump hiked the annual fee for H-1B visas to a whopping $100,000. According to reports, over 70 per cent beneficiaries of the H-1B visa are Indians. The companies will have to pay this fee in addition to the existing vetting charges. Trump’s decision is likely to impact Indian IT services companies, which have traditionally used H-1B visas to bring junior and mid-level engineers to the US for client projects and skills development.