WASHINGTON (AP) — The Indian government expressed concern Saturday about President Donald Trump’s latest push to upend American immigration policy, dramatically raising the fee for visas that allow tech workers from India and other countries to work in the United States.
The president on Friday signed a proclamation that mandates a $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas intended for high-skilled roles that American tech companies struggle to fill. Additionally, Trump announced a $1 million 'gold card' visa aimed at wealthy individuals, moves anticipated to face substantial legal challenges and criticism for bypassing Congress.
If these measures withstand legal scrutiny, they could lead to staggering increases in costs; the fee for skilled worker visas would soar from $215 to the proposed $100,000.
India's Ministry of External Affairs stated on Saturday that Trump's plan is under review, warning of potential humanitarian repercussions stemming from family disruptions. The government hopes that any disturbances can be mitigated by U.S. authorities.
More than 70% of H-1B visa holders are from India, and critics argue that this program undermines American workers by bringing in individuals willing to accept lower salaries.
Concerns Raised Over Visa Changes
While Trump insists that the tech industry supports the changes, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce expressed apprehension regarding the impact on employees and their families. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested the reforms may significantly reduce the annual allocation of H-1B visas, leading to potential talent shortages.
Additionally, Trump introduced the 'Trump Platinum Card,' priced at $5 million, which allows foreigners to stay up to 270 days in the U.S. without being taxed on non-U.S. income. The introduction of these high-fee options directly challenges traditional employment-based immigration pathways.
Critics, including former officials and economists, have described these fee increases as grossly excessive, with calls for any modifications to the H-1B program to be made through legislative channels rather than proclamations.
Historical Context and Future Implications
Historically, H-1B visas have been allocated through a lottery system, which critics argue often favors entry-level positions rather than skilled roles. This year, major companies such as Amazon were the top recipients of H-1B visas, yet many industry voices are advocating for reforms to improve the program’s fairness and utility.
As the potential for legal challenges looms, the future of immigration policy regarding tech workers remains uncertain, raising fears of chaos and instability for families impacted by these changes.
