Panic and confusion gripped Indians on H-1B visas in the US on Saturday following President Donald Trump’s proclamation to impose a USD 100,000 annual fee for H-1B work visas, which comes into effect on September 21. Many travelers canceled last-minute plans to visit India, while those already in India scrambled to return amid the uncertainty.
Individuals on H-1B visas described the situation as “chaotic” and “panic-inducing,” with many unsure of the rules or process for paying the hefty fee. Even those holding valid H-1B visas expressed fear that they could be barred from re-entering the US if their employers had not paid the USD 100,000 annual fee. Some canceled critical travel plans, including weddings, while others urgently sought flights back to the US.
Tech companies issued internal memos advising employees not to leave the US until clarity emerges, further highlighting the fear among workers. The timing of the proclamation, just weeks before Diwali and other year-end holidays, compounded the stress, leaving families uncertain about travel and holiday plans.
Beyond travel concerns, H-1B holders worried about the broader implications for their families, including spouses on H-4 visas and children, and questioned whether other visa categories, such as F-1 and L-1 holders, could face similar restrictions. Many expressed frustration at the lack of clarity from authorities and the high level of uncertainty, leaving them to reconsider their long-term plans to live and work in the US.
