Shockwave: Trump's Mammoth H1-B Visa Fee Spike

In a move that has stunned many, President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation dramatically raising the H-1B visa fee to USD 100,000 per year, a decision criticized by US lawmakers and tech industry leaders. Described as 'reckless' and 'unfortunate', the hike is expected to adversely affect skilled Indian professionals and the US technology sector, which heavily relies on H-1B visa holders.

The proclamation, titled 'Restriction on entry of certain nonimmigrant workers', cites the abuse of the H-1B visa program as a 'national security threat.' Immigration attorneys have advised H-1B holders or their families outside the US to return immediately, ahead of the September 21 deadline, to avoid getting stranded due to the new regulation.

Prominent Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi condemned the fee hike as a blow to America's competitive edge, while Ajay Bhutoria, an Asian-American immigration policy leader, warned of a talent drain from Silicon Valley. The tech industry must now grapple with significant barriers as small businesses and startups face the brunt of the increase from current fees of USD 2000-USD 5000.

(With inputs from agencies.)