Washington (PulseWire) — The Indian government expressed concern Saturday about President Trump's latest efforts to reshape American immigration policy, particularly following a proclamation signed Friday that dramatically raises fees for H-1B visas, which are often sought by skilled tech workers from India and elsewhere.
Under the new directive, the annual fee for H-1B visas would leap from $215 to $100,000, in addition to a multi-tiered system of new visa categories, including a $1 million 'gold card' for wealthy individuals seeking entry into the U.S. This proposal has been met with widespread criticism, suggesting it may face significant legal battles as it circumvents Congress.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs responded, stating their concerns were being addressed and warning of potential humanitarian challenges from the disruptions caused by the new measures, particularly for families impacted by immigration changes. Notably, over 70% of H-1B visa holders are of Indian origin.
Critics argue that the H-1B visa program often undercuts U.S. tech workers by allowing companies to hire foreign workers at lower salaries. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the proposal, claiming it would encourage companies to prioritize domestic talent. However, he acknowledged that such fees could drastically reduce the number of H-1B visas granted annually.
The announcement also includes the introduction of 'platinum card' options for foreigners wishing to spend extended periods in the U.S. with financial incentives, raising questions about the administration's overall immigration strategy.
Advocates for reforming the H-1B process have expressed mixed feelings about the fee increase, acknowledging it as a step toward recognizing the program's existing abuses. Yet, concerns about the legality and ethical implications of implementing such changes without legislative support have been prominent, with critics urging legislative reform rather than unilateral executive action.
Historically, H-1B visas have been allocated via lottery, making it increasingly competitive for tech firms to secure talent. As the landscape evolves, major companies utilizing H-1B visas are grappling with the ramifications of these proposed changes, leaving many unanswered questions about the future of skilled immigration in the U.S.
Under the new directive, the annual fee for H-1B visas would leap from $215 to $100,000, in addition to a multi-tiered system of new visa categories, including a $1 million 'gold card' for wealthy individuals seeking entry into the U.S. This proposal has been met with widespread criticism, suggesting it may face significant legal battles as it circumvents Congress.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs responded, stating their concerns were being addressed and warning of potential humanitarian challenges from the disruptions caused by the new measures, particularly for families impacted by immigration changes. Notably, over 70% of H-1B visa holders are of Indian origin.
Critics argue that the H-1B visa program often undercuts U.S. tech workers by allowing companies to hire foreign workers at lower salaries. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the proposal, claiming it would encourage companies to prioritize domestic talent. However, he acknowledged that such fees could drastically reduce the number of H-1B visas granted annually.
The announcement also includes the introduction of 'platinum card' options for foreigners wishing to spend extended periods in the U.S. with financial incentives, raising questions about the administration's overall immigration strategy.
Advocates for reforming the H-1B process have expressed mixed feelings about the fee increase, acknowledging it as a step toward recognizing the program's existing abuses. Yet, concerns about the legality and ethical implications of implementing such changes without legislative support have been prominent, with critics urging legislative reform rather than unilateral executive action.
Historically, H-1B visas have been allocated via lottery, making it increasingly competitive for tech firms to secure talent. As the landscape evolves, major companies utilizing H-1B visas are grappling with the ramifications of these proposed changes, leaving many unanswered questions about the future of skilled immigration in the U.S.
