Telangana govt assures support for families hit by Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike. Calls on Centre to act swiftly through diplomatic channels to protect Indian talent.

Hyderabad: Telangana Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Sunday said the state government will extend full support to professionals and families affected by the steep hike in H-1B visa fees announced by the US.

US President Donald Trump recently signed a proclamation raising the H-1B visa application cost to $100,000 (over ₹88 lakh) annually, a move that has triggered panic among Indian tech workers who make up the majority of H-1B holders.

Minister Prabhakar criticised the sudden decision, saying such exorbitant hikes create fear and uncertainty for young professionals and global companies alike. “The strength of Indo-US relations lies in the exchange of talent and technology. I urge the Government of India to take up this issue urgently through diplomatic channels and protect the interests of our skilled workforce,” he said.

The Telangana government has assured that it will work with the Centre to safeguard job opportunities and push for measures that protect Indian professionals abroad.

Industry experts warn that the sharp rise in costs could impact not just employees but also companies that depend on Indian talent, potentially slowing down projects and global operations. Families of H-1B workers have also expressed concerns over long-term stability in the US.

While the Centre has yet to announce a concrete plan, state leaders insist that India cannot afford to stay silent when such drastic policies threaten both its people and its economy.