New Delhi: The Indian government has acknowledged the one-month public comment period before the United States finalises rules to overhaul the H1-B visa lottery system, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. This comes after the latest visa move by the Donald Trump administration sparked concern among Indian professionals working in the US.

The MEA emphasised the importance of skilled talent mobility, noting that it has contributed to innovation and growth in both India and the United States. The ministry expressed hope that the US authorities will take these factors into account while finalising the new rules.

What changes has the Trump administration proposed?

President Trump last Friday signed a proclamation increasing the H1-B visa fee to $100,000 for new applicants, a move that affects millions of foreign workers intending to apply for the visa.

Alongside the fee hike, the administration has proposed changing the lottery system to a "weighted selection process" once the number of visas exceeds the 85,000 limit.

The proposal includes a 30-day public comment period, during which stakeholders can submit their feedback.

What did the MEA say about the public comment period?

The ministry stated: "We have seen the notice by the US Department of Homeland Security regarding the proposed rulemaking. I understand that stakeholders, including the industry, have one month to provide their comments."

Why is India concerned about the changes?

The MEA underlined the benefits of skilled talent mobility and exchanges, adding: "As we stated earlier, skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness, and wealth creation in the United States and India. The government would remain engaged with all concerned, including the industry, hoping that these factors receive due consideration."

The new visa fee has alarmed Indian professionals in the US. In response, the Indian embassy in Washington has set up an emergency assistance helpline to support those in urgent need.

What impact could the fee hike have?

The government noted that the fee increase could result in humanitarian consequences and disrupt families. It said it is studying the implications of the hike and hopes the US authorities will address the issue.

The H1-B visa programme is widely used by Big Tech and outsourcing companies to employ high-skilled foreign workers. Data shows that Indians account for 71 percent of all approved H1-B applications, making them particularly vulnerable to the new rules. Major Indian IT firms, including TCS and Infosys, heavily rely on H1-B visas, and the latest changes could create financial and manpower challenges for them.