US mulls fresh fees on H-1B visas, OPT extensions amid Indian worker concerns

The US administration is advancing regulatory changes that could introduce additional fees for H-1B visa holders and participants in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, according to recent policy developments. The proposed measures are expected to affect thousands of Indian professionals who rely on these visa categories to work in the United States.

Among the contemplated changes is a substantial fee on OPT extensions, with proposals suggesting charges that could exceed $100,000 for some applicants seeking to extend their practical training periods. Such fees would represent a significant financial burden for Indian professionals, many of whom fund their own employment and training costs while working in the US.

The H-1B visa programme, which has historically attracted large numbers of Indian IT professionals and skilled workers, could also face modified fee structures under the new rules being formulated by US authorities. These changes come as part of broader immigration policy reviews within the Trump administration focused on altering the framework governing temporary worker visas.

Industry observers and immigration experts note that enhanced fees could deter Indian professionals from pursuing US employment opportunities and may prompt companies to reconsider their hiring strategies. The policy shifts are expected to face scrutiny from major US employers who depend on H-1B workers to fill skilled positions in technology, healthcare, and engineering sectors.

The timeline for implementation of these proposed changes remains unclear, though regulatory announcements are anticipated in coming months as the US administration proceeds with immigration policy revisions.