The Trump administration’s recent decision to ease the controversial $100,000 H-1B visa fee has offered relief to thousands of Indian professionals and students already in the United States. Yet, a new cap on foreign student admissions has raised concerns about the long-term flow of talent from India, the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) warns. On 21 October, 2025, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services clarified that existing visa holders and students currently in the United States will not be required to pay the $100,000 fee, initially announced on 19 September, 2025. The exemption specifically covers students transitioning from F-1 to H-1B status and professionals moving from intra-company L-1 visas to H-1B, ensuring continuity for a substantial section of the Indian

See Full Page