Important Changes for Aspiring US Immigrants: As of today, April 1st, 2024, the United States has implemented significant fee increases for three common non-immigrant visa categories: H-1B, L-1, and EB-5.
These changes, the first major overhaul of visa service fees since 2016, could potentially impact immigration policies, international relations, and the upcoming presidential election.
New Visa Fee Structures
The Department of Homeland Security has announced that the revised fees for H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visas will be effective from April 1, as confirmed by US authorities.
These adjustments include changes to the forms and fee structures used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), with implications for costs, benefits, and transfer payments.
H-1B Visa Fee Hike Details
For H-1B visas, crucial for US companies employing foreign workers in specialized occupations, the application fee (form I-129) will surge from USD 460 (over ₹38,000) to USD 780 (over ₹64,000). Additionally, H-1B registration fees will increase from USD 10 (₹829) to USD 215 (over ₹17,000) from next year.
L-1 Visa Fee Increase
L-1 visas, facilitating intracompany transfers within multinational corporations, will witness a substantial fee hike. The fee for L-1 visas is set to rise from USD 460 (over ₹38,000) to USD 1,385 (over ₹1,10,000), impacting businesses reliant on global talent mobility.
EB-5 Visa Fee Changes
Investor visas under the EB-5 program, aimed at high-net-worth foreign investors seeking US residency, will experience a significant fee escalation. The fees for EB-5 visas will surge from USD 3,675 (over ₹3,00,000) to USD 11,160 (over ₹9,00,000), affecting individuals seeking investment-based immigration options.
Fee Hike for Premium Processing
It is worth mentioning here that earlier this year, USCIS implemented a premium processing fee increase for H-1B, F-1, M-1, and J-1 visas.
USCIS provides premium processing as an optional service, allowing applicants to accelerate the processing of their petitions and applications. This expedited service involves submitting Form I-907, titled “Request for Premium Processing Service.”
Impact on Indian Immigration to the US
H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visas are among the most commonly sought-after visas by Indians aspiring to immigrate to the United States. Notably, this is the first time since 2016 that these visa categories are expected to witness a fee hike, stirring anticipation and concern within immigrant communities.
Conclusion
These fee hikes are expected to have a significant impact on individuals seeking to work or invest in the US. The increased cost may deter some applicants, particularly for the EB-5 program which has seen a substantial jump.
It’s important to stay informed about these changes and consult with an immigration attorney if you’re planning to apply for one of these visas.
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