New Delhi: The Union Government on Saturday stated that the U.S. decision to impose a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas starting September 21 is likely to have humanitarian repercussions, disrupting families. The government expressed hope that the U.S. authorities would address these issues appropriately.

"The Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B 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 H1B program," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

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Jaiswal pointed out that the industry in both India and the US has a stake in innovation and creativity and can be expected to consult on the best path forward.

"Skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India. Policy makers will therefore assess recent steps taken into account mutual benefits, which include strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

"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 added.

Indians hold the highest number of H1-B visas, followed by China. According to government sources, the Union Government is in touch with the Indian Embassy in Washington and is also holding consultations with the leading tech industry body Nasscom here.

The new H-1B costs are expected to affect the US companies the most, as these rely heavily on Indians for specialised and high-skilled tech roles.