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In a significant development, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified that the newly imposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee does not apply to international students already present in the United States. This exemption includes individuals transitioning from F-1 student visas to H-1B work visas, as well as those applying for H-1B extensions or amendments. The fee applies only to new petitions filed for individuals outside the US without a valid visa, effective from September 21, 2025, as reported by India Today.
Impact on Indian Students
Indian students constitute a significant portion of the international student community in the US. The clarification comes as a major reprieve for Indian tech professionals, who form the backbone of the H-1B visa program. There are around 300,000 Indian workers currently in the US on H-1B visas, primarily employed in the technology and services industries. Indians account for about 70% of all new H-1B visa allocations, followed by Chinese nationals at 11–12%, according to Hindustan Times.
This exemption ensures that Indian students and professionals already in the US will not face the additional financial burden of the $100,000 fee when applying for H-1B status changes, extensions, or amendments.
Key Takeaways
- No Fee for Current Visa Holders: Individuals already in the US on valid visas, including F-1 students, are exempt from the $100,000 H-1B fee.
- No Impact on Status Changes: The fee does not apply to status changes within the US, such as F-1 to H-1B transitions.
- No Restrictions on Travel: Current H-1B holders can continue traveling in and out of the United States without restriction, India Today.
Looking Ahead
While this exemption offers immediate relief, Indian students and professionals need to stay informed about potential future changes in US immigration policies. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has cautioned that new restrictions on foreign student admissions could impact the long-term flow of talent to the US mint.
