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Ami Bera, Indian-origin Congressman and top Democrat, hinted that Trump trade aide Peter Navarro could be behind the recent H-1B visa fee hike.
Bera, a Democrat from Sacramento, suggested that Trump aide Peter Navarro played a key role in the H‑1B fee hike, while noting that Modi-Trump rapport could help ease tensions. (IMAGE: REUTERS)
Democratic Congressman Ami Bera, who represents Sacramento in the US House of Representatives, said the recent hike in H-1B visa fees will not benefit US-India relations. He also suggested that US President Donald Trump’s trade aide Peter Navarro “seems to be behind” the move.
Despite being in the opposition, Bera told the Indian Express that the personal rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump could help since they share a “good chemistry.” He also highlighted concerns over the visa fee hike, noting its potential impact on the Indian tech workforce in the broader US technology sector, including hubs like Silicon Valley.
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“I don’t agree with the policy because it’s actually going to hurt American companies. These are workers who are filling vital roles and positions. Hiking visa fees to $100,000 is unheard of for something like this,” Bera was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.
Trump recently signed a proclamation requiring a payment of USD 100,000 to supplement H-1B petitions for new applications, effective September 21 for a 12-month period unless extended. The rule applies prospectively, so it will not affect existing visa holders or already approved petitions.
A research paper by Morgan Stanley, accessed by ANI, noted that Indian IT firms, who account for nearly 70 percent of all H-1B visas, may face higher costs over the next three to six years as renewals arise.
The newspaper reported that Bera is leading a delegation to India this week. Navarro, who recently called India the “Maharaja of tariffs,” was also hinted to be behind the visa fee hike, Bera said, in conversation with the newspaper.
“I don’t agree with the policy, but if, in fact, even if they were to implement this, there’s a way to do this with some warning, some input. I’m not even sure who’s formulating this policy. It sounds like something Peter Navarro would come up with,” Bera said.
About the Author
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev…Read More
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev… Read More
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
September 22, 2025, 14:56 IST
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