India-U.S. Visa Hurdles: H-1B Fee Surge Prices Out Entrepreneurs, E-2 Opportunity Beckons
Indian entrepreneurs and investors face significant hurdles in entering the U.S., with the H-1B visa fee soaring to $100,000 and other categories' limitations. Meanwhile, India's exclusion from the E-2 visa program presents an untapped opportunity for both nations.
President Trump's recent proclamation has priced out most Indian citizens and small to mid-sized U.S. employers from the H-1B program. This fee increase, coupled with other visa category limitations, threatens to stifle innovation and push investment to competing markets. In response, India has dispatched its highest-level delegation, led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, for trade negotiations in Washington, D.C.
Including India in the E-2 visa treaty program could attract immediate foreign direct investment (FDI) to the U.S., drive job creation, and demonstrate America's openness for business. The E-2 visa offers a reliable, scalable pathway for Indian entrepreneurs and investors to launch U.S. operations, with investments starting around $100,000. This would create a reliable pathway for Indian entrepreneurs and investors, strengthen economic ties with the U.S., and offer relief to Indian nationals priced out of H-1B sponsorships.
With the H-1B fee increase risking long-term economic harm, adding E-2 eligibility for Indian nationals during the current bilateral negotiations presents a timely, actionable solution. This move would yield lasting economic benefits and reinforce the U.S.-India strategic partnership, while providing a much-needed alternative for Indian entrepreneurs and investors seeking to enter the U.S. market.
