As confusion around Donald Trump’s new H-1B proclamation begins to settle, experts are advising Indian students and professionals abroad to hold tight until all facts are clear. “H-1B visas are allotted annually, with the next lottery expected only after February next year, when about 85,000 visas are issued. Of these, around 20,000 are reserved for students with master’s degrees from US universities,” explained Dr Karan Gupta, career consultant.
He added that Indian students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) already benefit from a three-year Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, while business and humanities majors get one year. OPT allows graduates to gain work experience in their field.
The panic was triggered on September 19, when Trump abruptly announced that employers would have to pay $100,000 per H-1B petition. The chaos forced the White House to issue clarifications later in the day. “This applies only to new visas, not renewals or current holders,” clarified White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on X.
Parents and students reconsider ‘American dream’ amid visa hurdles. Representation pic/istock
While this protects existing workers, the announcement has shaken aspiring students preparing for the October application cycle. “Parents and students must stay calm. The next lottery isn’t until 2026, and the landscape may look different by then. In the meantime, aspirants should diversify applications across countries instead of relying only on the US,” said Hitesh Sharma, Founder & CEO, Edupeer Consultancy.
He stressed that the job market was already shifting. “A degree alone is no longer a ticket to a secure job. Students must adapt, focus on internships, build networks, and upskill constantly.” Prashant Bhonsle, founder of Kuhoo EduFintech, said the changes have forced families to reassess the American dream. “Back in the 2010s, US education promised exponential opportunities. Now, with rising costs and policy uncertainty, families must be cautious. Education spending should not exceed 10-20 per cent of net worth, or loans become crippling. For some, it may be wise to pause US plans.”
Students and parents speak
Kalina resident, 24-year-old student
“I got into five US universities, but changing polices and lack of jobs for immigrants made me defer and I finally cancelled my MS plans. Student loans are equal to a home loan, and without guaranteed jobs, it’s too risky. Trump’s moves made me prioritise my safety and future.”
Parent, Pune resident
“We’ve spent `80-90 lakh on each child’s education abroad. My daughter is on OPT and was preparing for the H-1B lottery. She was the only female student from her batch who was hired at a tech startup. We are looking at possible petitioners who may take up the case against the new proclamation, just like Elon Musk commented this morning. If she doesn’t land a US job, repayment is tough. Families must think twice before leaping into debt.”
Key points from the White House proclamation
>> $100,000 payment required per new H-1B petition
>> Applies only to new visas, not renewals or current holders
>> Employers must retain payment records, verified by the State Department
>> Exemptions possible if deemed in the US national interest
