Washington : The Indian Embassy US helpline now assists H-1B visa holders struggling with the recent visa fee changes. The Embassy launched this emergency number to support Indian professionals in the United States.
On Saturday, the Indian Embassy in Washington released an emergency contact for nationals requiring urgent help. “Indian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp). This number is strictly for emergencies and not routine consular queries,” the Embassy announced in a post on X.
The steep H-1B visa fee sparked serious concern among Indian tech professionals, who make up nearly 71 percent of H-1B recipients. Many fear disruptions in their career plans and financial commitments, including remittances to India.
A senior US official clarified that the increased fee applies only to fresh H-1B petitions, not renewals or existing holders. “This is a one-time fee that applies only to new visas, not renewals or current holders. It will first apply in the upcoming lottery cycle,” the White House said in response to IANS.
To ease the impact, the Indian government instructed its Missions and Posts to assist nationals traveling back to the United States in the next 24 hours. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) acknowledged the fee hike and confirmed it is assessing its broader implications.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal explained that the government is studying the matter closely with industry stakeholders. “The government has noted the proposed restrictions on the US H-1B visa program. Indian industry has already shared an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions. However, the measure could also create humanitarian challenges for families,” he cautioned.
The decision has already triggered anxiety among thousands of Indian IT professionals working in the US. With families depending on their income, even temporary disruptions could impact both personal lives and bilateral economic ties.
For now, the Embassy’s emergency helpline offers a vital channel of immediate support for Indians abroad, as New Delhi and Washington continue discussions over the H-1B program changes.
–IANS
