There is news of great relief for H-1B visa holders in America. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified that the $1,00,000 (approximately Rs 88 lakh) visa fee recently announced by the Trump administration will not be applicable to applicants who wish to change their status or extend their stay in America. This move has brought great relief especially to Indian professionals, as India constitutes the largest number of applicants for H-1B visas.
What are the new guidelines?
USCIS said that the H-1B fee hikes imposed under Trump’s September 19 order will not apply to previously issued and currently valid visas or to applications submitted before 12:01 a.m. on September 21, 2025. There are no restrictions on travel to and from the US for existing H-1B visa holders. However, the new rules will only affect new applications.
Why were the fees increased?
Donald Trump claimed the H-1B visa fee increase was aimed at giving American citizens priority in jobs. However, major American companies and the US Chamber of Commerce filed a lawsuit against the decision, arguing that the increased fees would harm American companies and put undue pressure on foreign professionals.
Of particular importance to Indian professionals:
Last year, Indians represented approximately 70 percent of all approved H-1B visa holders for 2024. This decision provides relief to them, as they have the largest number of pending H-1B applications. USCIS clarified that applicants seeking status changes or extensions will not be required to pay additional fees, providing relief to thousands of Indian professionals
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