New US Visa Changes Impact NRIs: Fees, Interviews, and Taxes

The US government has announced significant changes to its visa policies that will directly impact Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) working in the country. The changes include a substantial increase in the annual fee for the H-1B visa, now set at $100,000, alongside stricter requirements for visa interviews and the introduction of a new remittance tax. These alterations could create challenges for Indian professionals and their families, potentially affecting their financial stability and travel plans.

Increased H-1B Visa Fees Raise Concerns

Effective immediately, the revised fee structure for the H-1B visa has raised alarm among Indian professionals employed in the United States. With the cost now at $100,000 annually, experts predict that this may result in higher operational costs for employers. Such increases could dissuade companies from hiring foreign talent, particularly skilled workers from India, where demand for H-1B visas has been notably high.

As these financial burdens mount, the implications for job opportunities could be severe. Professionals who have relied on this visa for employment in the US may find themselves facing a more competitive and restricted landscape.

Stricter Visa Interview Requirements

Alongside the fee increase, the US Department of State has implemented new rules regarding visa interview waivers that will take effect on September 2, 2025. Most visa applicants, including those renewing H-1B visas, will now be required to attend in-person interviews. This development is expected to exacerbate already lengthy backlogs and processing times, particularly affecting Indian nationals who had previously utilized third-country options for their visa applications.

The change in policy is causing anxiety among many NRIs who depend on timely visa renewals to maintain their residency and work status in the US. The added requirement for in-person interviews may lead to delays that disrupt both professional and personal lives.

Introduction of Remittance Tax

Another significant change impacting NRIs is the introduction of a 1% tax on outward remittances, effective July 4, 2025. This new tax applies to all non-citizens, including H-1B holders and Green Card residents. While the policy is intended to generate additional revenue for the US government, it may discourage NRIs from sending money back to their families in India.

This tax could have far-reaching effects on personal finances and sectors in India that rely heavily on remittances. Many families depend on these funds for living expenses, education, and investments, making the new tax a significant concern.

Shifting Investment Trends in Real Estate

As the landscape for H-1B visa holders evolves, some NRIs are beginning to reconsider their real estate investments in the US. The combination of increased visa fees and stricter immigration policies may lead to heightened interest in the Indian real estate market. Cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad are gaining attention for their improving infrastructure and investment potential.

With many professionals reassessing their financial strategies, this trend could reshape the dynamics of real estate investments, as NRIs seek more stable opportunities closer to home.

The recent changes to US visa policies underscore the growing challenges faced by NRIs. The increased financial burdens, coupled with stricter immigration regulations and new taxes, could significantly alter the landscape for Indian professionals in the US and lead to broader implications for their families and investments back in India.