H-1B visa tightening a temporary setback, Indian tech talent still in demand: CM Naidu

Naidu said Indian tech talent remains in high demand across geographies due to a mix of advanced skills and cost efficiency

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described the recent tightening of the US H-1B visa regime as only a “temporary setback” for Indian tech professionals, asserting that their cost advantage and skills will continue to make them indispensable globally.

Speaking to PTI, Naidu, who envisioned Hyderabad as a cyber hub two decades ago, said Indian tech talent remains in high demand across geographies due to a mix of advanced skills and cost efficiency. “Cost is very, very important…you (Indian techies) are providing cost-effective services. They are bound to depend on us. That is going to happen. I am very clear,” he said.

The US, under President Donald Trump, recently introduced a USD 1 lakh supplemental fee for new H-1B visa petitions filed after September 21, 2025. While the move was aimed at curbing “abuse” of the programme, Trump acknowledged that America still needs foreign talent for highly technical and complex roles.

Naidu emphasized that any restrictions on Indians cannot stop their progress. “This is a temporary setback. Some people will suffer. But, we have to make use of them,” he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted opportunities within India, saying the country is embracing next-generation technologies across sectors such as indigenous 4G, satellites, drones, AI, and quantum computing. “We will create opportunities” for tech professionals displaced by stricter US visa rules, he added.

Even as US visa scrutiny intensifies, countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East are actively seeking skilled engineers in software development, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies. Analysts note that many companies are recalibrating hiring strategies to leverage India’s talent either through remote roles or expanded engineering centres, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and other tech hubs.

Industry bodies stress that global digital transformation continues to drive demand for specialised skills, ensuring that Indian tech professionals remain well-positioned internationally despite short-term fluctuations in US immigration policy.