“H1B visa holders don’t need to rush back to US, new rules, including fees, apply to new applicants”: Senior US Administration official

There’s significant relief for existing H-1B visa holders, a senior US Administration official clarified on Friday (local time) that the USD 100,000 annual fee targets new H-1B visa petitions, not existing holders or renewals.

According to the official, individuals currently holding H-1B visas, including those visiting India or abroad, don’t need to rush back to the US before Sunday or pay the steep $100,000 fee.

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“Those who are visiting or leaving the country, or visiting India, don’t need to rush back before Sunday or pay the $100,000 fee. $100,000 is only for new and not current existing holders,” the official told ANI.

With 71-72% of H-1B visas going to Indians, the move has sparked concerns about its effects on Indian tech professionals and remittances.

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