Piyush Goyal: US H-1B Fee Hike Shows Fear of Indian Talent
The United States has introduced a one-time fee of US $100,000 for new H-1B visa applications, effective from September 21, 2025. Existing visa holders and those renewing are not affected by this change.
India’s Reaction
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal responded to the move by saying that the world is “a little afraid of Indian talent.” He saw the fee hike as recognition of India’s rising strength in global skilled workforce pools.
Call to Innovate at Home
Goyal urged Indian professionals abroad, including NRIs (Non-Resident Indians), to consider returning to India to “innovate here, design here” and help contribute to India’s growth. He emphasized that despite challenges, India has been delivering strong economic performance, pointing to a 7.8% growth rate in the first quarter of 2025.
Diplomacy & Trade Context
Goyal is leading a ministerial delegation to the U.S. for trade talks starting September 22, 2025. Earlier, positive exchanges had taken place with visiting U.S. trade officials in New Delhi. The visa fee decision is now part of broader U.S.-India discussions involving trade and talent mobility.
