New Delhi: India has officially responded to the Trump administration’s decision to impose a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa holders, a move that could significantly impact Indian IT professionals and companies operating in the United States.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is “studying the full implications” of the measure in consultation with all stakeholders, including Indian industry representatives.

“The Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H-1B visa program. The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry, which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H-1B program,” the MEA said.

The ministry further highlighted the vital role of skilled talent mobility between India and the United States, emphasizing that such exchanges have contributed significantly to innovation, technology development, economic growth, and competitiveness for both nations.

It also stressed that policymakers are expected to assess these recent steps while keeping in mind the mutual benefits and strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The MEA cautioned that the steep fee could create humanitarian challenges, particularly for families of H-1B workers. “This measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families. Government hopes that these disruptions can be addressed suitably by the US authorities,” the statement read.

US President Donald Trump signed the proclamation on Friday, making it mandatory for employers to pay USD 100,000 upfront for all fresh H-1B applications and extensions, as well as an additional USD 100,000 every year to maintain the visa.

According to reports, the new rule takes effect from Sunday, September 21, and will also apply to existing H-1B holders who will be denied entry unless their employers comply with the fee requirement.