New Fees for H-1B Visa Renewals?

The United States is considering imposing new fees on H-1B and L-1 visa renewals, a move that could significantly affect Indian professionals working in the country's technology sector. At present, additional fees apply mainly to new visa petitions and certain employer changes. Under the proposed rule, employers may also have to pay extra charges while renewing visas for existing employees, even if they continue with the same organisation. Employers currently pay a minimum of around $4,000 in applicable fees.

Industry experts say the proposal would increase the cost of retaining highly skilled foreign workers, particularly in the technology sector, where Indian professionals account for a large share of H-1B visa holders. The proposal comes after previous attempts to impose significantly higher H-1B visa fees faced legal challenges in US courts. If implemented, the revised renewal fee structure is expected to generate more than $150 million in additional annual revenue for the US government.