Amid rising tensions over the new H-1B visa fee, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, made a strong case for a “global workforce,” arguing that many nations cannot meet their labor needs with their own populations.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Speaking at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) event in New York, Jaishankar delivered a message widely interpreted as a direct response to the new immigration policy from the Trump administration.
Key Points from Jaishankar’s Speech
- The Reality of Global Demographics: Jaishankar emphasized that a global workforce is not just a political issue but an economic reality. He stated, “If you look at demand and you look at demographics, demands cannot be met in many countries purely out of national demographics.”
- A Call for a New Model: He called for a “more acceptable, contemporary, efficient model of a global workforce,” suggesting that the current systems are outdated and inefficient.
- A Broader Economic Challenge: Jaishankar framed the issue as a “very big question today which the international economy has to address,” hinting that protectionist policies could harm global economic health.
The New H-1B Visa Fee
The minister’s comments come on the heels of the Trump administration’s new proclamation, which imposes a one-time $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications. This fee, which went into effect on September 21, 2025, is a sharp increase from previous costs and is expected to significantly impact Indian professionals, who are the primary beneficiaries of this visa.
While the U.S. government has clarified that the fee does not apply to current H-1B holders or those renewing their visas, the measure has created significant concern and uncertainty. Experts warn that this policy could lead to a “brain drain” as skilled professionals seek opportunities in other countries like Canada, Germany, and the UK, which are actively recruiting this talent.
