The Indian Embassy in the United States has established an emergency helpline to assist Indian nationals in light of President Donald Trump’s new rule imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. This rule went into effect today, prompting the embassy’s action. Since a significant portion of H-1B visas are granted to Indian citizens (71-72%), the change is particularly relevant. Concerns have arisen regarding the impact on Indian tech professionals and the movement of funds. The USCIS clarified that the fee is exclusively for new H-1B applicants, not those who applied before September 21.
The Indian Embassy’s X post announced the emergency helpline, providing the cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp) for urgent assistance only, excluding standard consular questions. The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the fee is a one-time payment tied to the petition, and not an annual charge. It applies only to new visas, not to existing ones or their renewals.
Leavitt also confirmed that current H-1B visa holders who are outside the country will not be charged the fee to re-enter. These visa holders can travel to and from the US under the same conditions as before, unaffected by the new rule.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on the H-1B visa fee, indicating the government is assessing the complete ramifications. The statement mentioned that the Indian government is aware of the reports on the new restrictions. The government is carefully studying the full impacts of the measure, including its potential effects on families. It expressed its hope that the US authorities would address any issues caused by these disruptions.