In a significant development for Indian professionals and the US technology sector, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has reintroduced legislation that could potentially double the annual H-1B visa quota from 65,000 to 130,000. This move comes amid the Trump administration's recent imposition of a substantial $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions.
What is the HIRE Act?
The High-Skilled Immigration Reform for Employment Act, commonly known as the HIRE Act, represents a comprehensive approach to US immigration reform. Congressman Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat from Illinois, officially reintroduced this legislation on November 30, 2025, seeking to amend the existing Immigration and Nationality Act.
The primary objective of this bill is to expand access to high-skilled global talent while simultaneously strengthening America's domestic workforce. The proposed legislation has already gained support from ITServe Alliance, which happens to be the largest association of IT services organizations in the United States.
Dual Focus: STEM Education and Visa Expansion
The HIRE Act addresses two critical areas of concern for America's technological future. According to Congressman Krishnamoorthi, the legislation aims to boost STEM education in elementary and secondary schools while significantly expanding the annual supply of H-1B visas.
"To build the jobs and industries of tomorrow, America must stay at the forefront of innovation by strengthening our own workforce while continuing to welcome top talent from around the globe," Krishnamoorthi stated in an official release.
The Congressman emphasized that by ensuring employers can recruit the skilled workers they require, the legislation would facilitate the creation of well-paying jobs and secure America's leadership in future technologies.
Trump's $100,000 Fee Shock
This legislative effort comes against the backdrop of the Trump administration's recent crackdown on immigration. On September 19, 2025, the administration imposed a substantial new fee of $100,000 (approximately ₹88 lakh) on new H-1B petitions, which companies must pay to sponsor applicants.
The proclamation specifically announced "restriction on entry of certain nonimmigrant workers" as part of the administration's immigration policy adjustments. However, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services later clarified that the hefty $100,000 fee would not apply to applicants seeking a 'change of status' or 'extension of stay.'
The contrasting approaches highlight the ongoing political debate surrounding high-skilled immigration in the United States. While the Trump administration appears focused on restricting entry through financial barriers, the HIRE Act proposes expanding access to global talent.
The outcome of this legislative effort could have profound implications for Indian professionals, who traditionally represent a significant portion of H-1B visa recipients, and for American companies that rely on specialized international talent to maintain their competitive edge in the global market.
