In a major relief for thousands of Indian professionals and students in the US, the Trump administration has clarified that the recently introduced $100,000 H-1B visa fee will not apply to existing visa holders or international graduates already in the country. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that individuals on valid F-1, L-1, or H-1B visas, including those transitioning from student to work status, are exempt from the steep fee that was set to take effect on September 21, 2025.
H-1B Visa Relief Update
The announcement eases panic among nearly 300,000 Indian tech workers and numerous employers relying on H-1B talent. Indians, who account for about 70% of new visas, are the most affected by the policy.
The exemption follows strong reactions in both countries, with critics warning that the fee could cripple the H-1B programme. The move restores relief and clarity for Indian professionals, IT firms, and US-based graduates seeking work opportunities.