H-1B Visa Fee Hike To Disrupt Indian Families, Full Implications Being Studied: MEA

India on Saturday said the Trump administration's new restrictions on H1B visa programme are likely to have humanitarian consequences and hoped that the 'disruptions' would be addressed suitably by the American authorities.

India's reaction came hours after US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to impose a USD 100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas, a move that is set to adversely impact Indian professionals in the US.

'This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families,' External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. 'The government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities,' he said.

Jaiswal said the 'full implications' of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry. Industries in both India and the US have a 'stake in innovation and creativity and can be expected to consult on the best path forward,' he said.

'Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India,' he said.

'Policy makers will therefore assess recent steps taking into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries,' Jaiswal added.