Trump’s $100k H-1B visa hits Tamil skilled aspirants

There is anxiety among Tamil families about whether children studying abroad can realise work prospects in the United States

- HD Bureau

A sweeping policy change by the U. S. government imposing a onetime $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions is sending ripples through Tamil Nadu's large community of aspiring tech professionals.

The cost surge, set to apply from the next visa lottery cycle and not affecting those already on visas or renewals, is being seen by many as a barrier to entry for young graduates and researchers from southern India.

Indians account for over 70 per cent of H-1B visa holders, and Tamil Nadu is among the states supplying a large share of students and technology sector workers using this route. The hike means employers must pay the elevated fee for each new beneficiary, significantly increasing the cost of sponsoring skilled personnel.