Only on New Visas, White House Gave Much Needed Clarity

The confusion surrounding US President Donald Trump’s shocking announcement on H-1B visa fees has finally been addressed. The White House issued an official clarification making it clear that the $100,000 fee applies only to new visa applications and not to existing holders.

According to the statement, the proclamation does not affect anyone who already has a valid visa or those who participated in the 2025 lottery. It is aimed only at future applicants in the upcoming February lottery who are outside the United States.

A US official also confirmed that there is no need for panic travel among Indian tech professionals. Current H-1B holders can continue to move in and out of America without the new fee mandate. Renewals are also excluded from the rule, meaning existing visa holders remain unaffected.

This much-needed clarification has brought relief to thousands of Indian IT workers and their families who were worried about sudden disruptions in their travel and work plans.

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