US Visa Rules Slam Indian IT Firms with $100k+ Fees and Stricter Audits

The US has introduced new visa rules that will impact Indian IT and consulting firms. The H-1B visa fee has been raised to $103,265, in addition to existing fees of $2,000-$5,000. This move is aimed at discouraging over-reliance on foreign workers.

The L-1 visa, used by multinationals, will also face stricter audits and increased compliance burdens. The rules require proof of genuine intra-company transfers and mandatory disclosure of wage levels, work sites, and client contracts.

Indian IT firms will have to recalibrate their strategies in response to these changes. They may prioritize senior, high-wage talent for US placements while shifting entry and mid-level roles offshore. Companies will invest in automation, AI, and cloud delivery to reduce dependence on on-site staff.