Planning to work in the United States on an H-1B visa? Recent policy changes announced by President Trump’s administration introduce significant updates that NRIs must understand, especially the sharp increase in fees and modifications to the interview process. Indian professionals, who represent over 70% of H-1B holders, will be particularly affected by these new rules.
This article breaks down essential updates for 2025, highlighting how they will impact your application and what steps you should take to prepare.
Key Updates for NRIs in 2025
Substantial Fee Increase
Starting September 21, 2025, a new one-time fee of $100,000 will apply to new H-1B petitions. This fee replaces the previous application fees, which ranged between $2,000 and $5,000. It exceeds 60% of many Indian H-1B workers’ US annual salary. Existing visas and renewals are exempt.
Interview Process Changes
The interview waiver (Dropbox) service ends September 2, 2025. Nearly all applicants must attend in-person interviews unless their previous visa expired within 12 months.
Stay Cap and Median Wages
The annual H-1B cap remains 65,000 plus 20,000 for US advanced degree holders. Median wages for H-1B workers are around $108,000, much higher than the general US worker median.
Proposed Lottery System Modifications
The DHS proposes a weighted lottery system prioritizing higher wages. Registrations receive multiple entries by wage level:
NRI Checklist: What You Need to Know
Given the planned modifications to the lottery system and increased compliance enforcement, it’s essential for applicants and employers alike to stay informed and adaptable. Keeping informed of policy updates and seeking guidance from immigration experts can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful application.
Applicability: Who is Affected?
- Current H-1B Holders:
Current visa holders are not impacted by the new $100,000 fee or the changes to the interview process. Renewals, extensions, and amendments filed before September 21, 2025, also remain unaffected. These individuals can continue their employment and travel without additional fees or procedural changes.
- New H-1B Applicants:
The new $100,000 fee applies exclusively to new H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025. Additionally, all new applicants must attend in-person visa interviews due to the elimination of the interview waiver (Dropbox) service for most cases. The proposed changes to the lottery system, favoring higher wages, will also apply, potentially affecting selection chances.
Key Considerations for Indian Professionals
- Indians make up over 70% of H-1B visa recipients, so these changes disproportionately affect them.
- The new $100,000 fee creates a significant financial barrier for first-time applicants, particularly impacting entry- and mid-level positions.
- Healthcare professionals may still qualify for national interest exceptions due to shortages in the US.
- Specialty occupation requirements remain unchanged, but higher costs and stricter rules make early planning essential.
- Many Indian professionals may need to rethink their US career strategies in light of these evolving restrictions and costs.
Conclusion
As of late 2025, the H-1B visa landscape will undergo profound changes that significantly impact new applicants. The introduction of a substantial $100,000 application fee represents a major financial hurdle, particularly for first-time applicants. Coupled with the proposed wage-based lottery system that favors higher-paid roles, the selection environment will become markedly more competitive, requiring strategic planning and careful salary negotiations. These updates reflect a deliberate policy shift to enhance the quality and compensation standards of foreign talent entering the US workforce.
NRIs aspiring to work in the US should seek expert guidance to fully understand the implications, align their applications with new criteria, and develop effective strategies to maximize their chances of success in this challenging yet rewarding process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the new H-1B visa application fee for 2025?
A $100,000 one-time fee applies to new petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Existing visa holders are exempt.
Q2. Does the new fee affect current H-1B visa holders?
No, only new applications after the effective date must pay the fee. Renewals and existing visa holders are unaffected.
Q3. What changes apply to the H-1B interview process?
Interview waivers end for most applicants from September 2, 2025. Almost all must attend in-person consular interviews.
Q4. How will the lottery system change?
A wage-prioritized lottery will give higher-paid roles multiple entries, increasing their odds, while reducing chances for lower-paid jobs.
Q5. Are there exceptions to the new rules?
Yes, national interest waivers may apply for healthcare, technology, and other critical sector roles under DHS discretion.
