H-1B Visa: Existing Holders Not Required to Return Immediately, $100,000 Fee Applies Only to New Applicants

President Trump has issued a new order regarding the H-1B visa, mandating companies to pay a fee of $100,000 (approximately 88 lakh rupees) to bring in employees from abroad. This new rule is set to take effect on September 21st. The announcement caused immediate confusion and concern, leading some Indian IT professionals already outside the US to cut their trips short and attempt to return. Indians constitute approximately 70% of H-1B visa holders.