India raises concerns over US H-1B visa fee hike, warns of family disruptions

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal

India on Saturday raised concern over US President Donald Trump’s proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on every H-1B worker entering the country, cautioning that the move could disrupt families and have humanitarian consequences. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it has noted reports of the sweeping changes to the visa programme and is reviewing their full implications in consultation with industry and other stakeholders.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "The Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B visa program. 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 program."

“This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families. Government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities,”Randhir Jaiswal further said.

Our statement regarding restrictions to the US H1B visa program
https://t.co/fkOjHIxEu9 pic.twitter.com/1rM9W3GYqC

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 20, 2025

“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 program,” the MEA said in an official statement.

“Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India. Policymakers will therefore assess recent steps taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries,” it noted.

Pointing to the potential fallout, the MEA added: “This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families. Government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities.”

The MEA highlighted that both India and the US have a shared stake in innovation and creativity and should consult on the best way forward. The H-1B program, widely used by Indian IT professionals, has long been a cornerstone of India-US people-to-people ties.