From ₹6 lakh to ₹88 lakh: U.S. turns H-1B into a millionaires’ gateway, forcing India and the world to rethink talent pipelines
In a sweeping shift with worldwide consequences, the United States has announced that fees for the H-1B work visa will soar to USD 100,000 (~₹88 lakh) per applicant a staggering rise from the earlier USD 7,000-8,000 (₹6 lakh). The Trump administration frames the move as a way to protect American workers, but critics argue it risks shutting out global talent that has long powered U.S. innovation.
For India, which accounts for nearly three-quarters of all H-1B holders, the impact could be dramatic. The cost surge may deter Indian tech firms and professionals from pursuing U.S. opportunities, accelerating a trend already visible in the past three months as Indian exports of skilled workers decline. Simultaneously, Washington is offering a “wealth visa” pathway, where investment of USD 1 million (~₹8.8 crore) can secure permanent residency signaling a pivot from skills-driven immigration to capital-driven entry.
The fallout will not be limited to India. Global tech hubs from Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia may redirect talent flows, while U.S. firms risk losing competitive advantage if skilled professionals choose Europe, Canada, or Australia instead. The policy underscores a deeper realignment: America is raising barriers for workers while lowering them for investors. For India and others, the priority must now be diversifying opportunities and building ecosystems that can retain and absorb world-class talent.
