US Hikes H-1B and L-1 Visa Fees; Will Affect Indian IT Companies

In a blow to Indian IT firms, the US has notified an additional fee up to $4,000 for certain categories of the popular H-1B and L-1 visas. The US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) said applicants for certain categories of H-1B visas post December 18, 2015 must submit an additional fee of $4,000 (roughly Rs. 2.6 lakhs). In addition, for those applying for certain L-1A and L-1B must submit an additional $4,500 (roughly Rs. 3 lakhs). Referring to the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 signed into law by US President Barack Obama on December 18, 2015, USCIS said the additional fees apply to petitioners who employ 50 or more employees in the US, with more than 50 per cent of those employees in H-1B or L (including L-1A and L-1B) nonimmigrant status. This fee is in addition to the base processing fee, Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee, American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act of 1998 fee (when required), as well as the premium processing fee, if applicable. This will remain effective through September 30, 2025, USCIS said. PTI