H1B Visa

H1B Visa Fee Hike – Panic or Perspective?

The U.S. government’s decision to increase the H1B visa fee to $100,000 has sent shockwaves across social media in India. Influencers and commentators are working overtime, calling it unfair and discriminatory. But let us pause and ask: Is this really an “anti-India” move?

A Rule for All, Not Just Indians

The new fee structure applies to every nationality, not just Indians. Yes, Indians form the largest pool of H1B holders, which is why the impact feels sharper here. But the U.S. administration has not singled out India. Instead, it is signalling a larger policy shift — to push companies to prioritise American workers before hiring from abroad.

The Duty of Any President

The President of the United States is elected by Americans, for Americans. His foremost duty is to safeguard U.S. jobs and ensure opportunities for American citizens. Expecting him to place the interests of foreign workers above his own electorate is unrealistic. Every nation, including India, frames its policies with its citizens in mind.

Mutual Benefits – Until Now

It is also true that the U.S. has heavily depended on foreign tech talent for decades. Skilled professionals from India, China, and other Asian countries filled critical gaps in Silicon Valley, research labs, and healthcare systems. The benefits were mutual:

The U.S. got a steady supply of world-class skills.

Foreign professionals gained high salaries, exposure, and experience.

This wasn’t charity — it was a transaction that worked for both sides.

What Next for Asian Talent?

The world has changed. The U.S. is no longer the only dream destination for skilled migrants.

Canada, Germany, the UK, and Australia have simplified visa pathways for talent.

Gulf countries are diversifying economies and opening opportunities.

Even India’s own tech ecosystem is expanding rapidly, offering global-scale projects at home.

So, while the U.S. may be tightening its gates, doors elsewhere are opening wider.

Bottom Line

The H1B fee hike is not a personal attack on India. It is a political and economic choice by the U.S. government to put its citizens first. For Indian professionals, the message is clear:

Don’t panic.

Don’t depend only on America.

Build skills that are valued worldwide — because opportunities are now global, not U.S.-centric.

In short: This is not the end of Indian talent abroad. It’s simply the start of a new chapter where professionals must diversify their choices beyond the United States.

If financial viability is there, India may try to bring universities,  at the standard of US and educate,  train and utilize technocrats for her our own development.   

Don't get panicky dear Gen Z!