Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 25: The steep hike of the US H-1B visa fee to USD 100,000 has sent shockwaves through India’s tech community, even as Germany, the UK and Canada move swiftly to attract skilled professionals seeking alternatives.

Global mobility expert Vijay Thirulamai said his firm received 12 EB-5 investment and nine O-1 exceptional-ability visa applications in just five days, with several Indian founders exploring Canada’s Startup Visa route.

Germany’s Ambassador Philipp Ackermann released a video inviting Indian talent, calling Germany’s migration system “reliable, modern and predictable,” while Canada’s policy forum Build Canada proposed a dedicated work permit for current and potential US H-1B holders earning over USD 140,000, estimating a 1% GDP boost if 120,000 professionals relocate.

In the UK, Startup Coalition head Dom Hallas urged the Home Office to expand its Global Talent Fund and streamline visa processing for incoming tech talent, while London-based startups such as Cleo and Attio offered full visa sponsorship.
Even China joined the race, unveiling a K-visa programme for STEM professionals beginning October 1.

Legal expert Rohit Jain warned of a “significant shift of Indian engineering talent” unless India offers stronger incentives like research grants and startup support.

The sudden US policy change has triggered a global scramble for Indian tech expertise, with Berlin, London and Toronto emerging as the biggest beneficiaries.