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In today’s world, America is considered the largest center of education, employment, business, and tourism. Every year, millions of Indian students, tourists, and professionals dream of going to America. But recently, America has made the visa process more expensive and complicated. The new rules have not only burdened the pockets of the applicants but have also raised many questions in their minds. In this blog, we will know in detail why these changes were made, who will be affected by them, and what the way forward is for Indian applicants.
➡History of America’s Visa Policy
America has always attracted talented people and tourists from around the world.
1960–1980 decade: – During this period, America freely gave visas to talented scientists, doctors, and students.
1990 decade: – After the boom in the IT sector, the demand for H1B visas increased. Indians were at the forefront in this.
After 2001:- After the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the visa process was tightened in the name of security.
2016–2020: The Trump administration made visa rules more difficult under the “America First” policy.
2025:- Now, due to the Biden government and new administrative rules, visa fees and conditions have been increased even more.
➡What are the new changes?
The US has recently made several major changes in the visa process:
✅Integrity Visa Fee
Now every Indian applicant will have to pay an additional fee of up to ₹40,000 (about $500).
Earlier, the general visa fee was between $160 $250.
✅Penalty for overstaying a visa
If a person overstays the visa period, they may have to pay a bond of up to ₹12.5 lakh ($15,000).
✅Interview exemption cut
Earlier, many people did not have to give an interview under the “dropbox” facility.
Now, most of the applicants will have to compulsorily attend the interview.
✅Impact on student visa
Indian students studying in American universities are the highest in number.
But due to both fees and visa being expensive, the student community will be affected heavily.
✅Decline in tourist visa
Reports related to the tourism industry indicate that the number of Indian tourists has declined by about 2.5%.
➡Why did America do this?
According to the US government, there are many reasons for these changes
Strengthening security – preventing fake documents and illegal migration.
Economic benefits – Earning billions of dollars annually from visa fees.
Reducing unemployment – America wants American youth to get jobs instead of foreign workers.
Political pressure – The demand for “America First” is gaining momentum again in domestic politics.
➡Direct impact on Indians
✅Students – Indian students go to America the most in the world. Now the cost of their studies will increase even more.
✅Tourists – Due to expensive visa fees, many people will turn to other countries in Europe or Asia.
✅Companies – IT companies will hesitate to send their employees to America.
✅ Family trips – The number of Indians going to America to meet relatives will decrease.
➡Will India-US relations be affected?
The strategic partnership between India and America is strong.
Military cooperation – Both countries are conducting “Yudh Abhyas 2025” together in Alaska.
Trade – The US is India’s largest trading partner.
Student power – US universities depend on Indian students.
⏺Although visas being expensive will reduce people’s enthusiasm, the depth of the relationship is such that both countries can find a solution together.
➡Solutions and suggestions for Indian applicants
✅ Apply with planning
Do not rush to get a visa; first, prepare a complete plan for your travel or studies.
✅Consider other options
If the budget is limited, look at education and tourism in countries like Europe, Canada, and Australia.
✅Scholarships and funding
Take advantage of scholarships and scholarship schemes of US universities.
✅Choose the right agency
To avoid fraud, contact only authorized visa agencies.
✅Follow the rules
Do not overstay the visa period; otherwise, there may be heavy fines and a ban in the future.
➡Conclusion
The US’s making the visa process more expensive and complex has created many challenges for Indian applicants. But for those who truly want to study, work, or travel in the US, this is just an additional hurdle. With the right preparation, planning, and options, these difficulties can be overcome.
