Beijing: The United States has raised the fee for H-1B visas for professionals from around ₹6 lakh to nearly ₹88 lakh, a move that is expected to make it harder for skilled workers to migrate to America. The revised fee came into effect on September 21.
Meanwhile, China has announced the launch of a new “K-visa,” aimed at young people and skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). According to the South China Morning Post, the K-visa will be available from October 1, 2025. Applicants conducting research in these fields will also be eligible, and unlike many existing visas, a job offer from a Chinese company will not be required. The initiative is being viewed as an alternative to the US H-1B visa.
At the same time, the United Kingdom is considering scrapping visa fees for highly skilled individuals. Reuters reported that applicants who have studied at one of the world’s top five universities or won a major international award could have their entire visa fee waived.
Currently, the UK charges £766 (about ₹90,000) for the Global Talent Visa. The changes are expected to take effect from November 26.
