SABA Slams $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee As Unfair And Abrupt
India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC – The South Asian Bar Association of North America Foundation, a prominent legal advocacy group, has sharply criticized the recent $100,000 fee for H-1B visas, calling the measure “unfair” and a source of significant anxiety for thousands of immigrants.
The organization released a statement denouncing the proclamation, noting that it was announced late on September 19 with implementation scheduled just two days later, intensifying uncertainty for affected visa holders.
Rittu Kumar, President of the Foundation, described the timing and impact as “unacceptable and unjust,” saying the policy created “immense confusion and fear.” She added that the move “is not only harmful to the South Asian diaspora — which represents a significant portion of H-1B visa holders — but it also undermines the broader values of fairness, merit, and openness that have long defined the American promise.”
The Association also highlighted what it called a lack of legal and legislative grounding for the fee. The group said the abrupt policy change disproportionately affects South Asian professionals and their families, many of whom are already navigating long green card backlogs. The Foundation warned that the new fee threatens these immigrants’ ability to continue contributing to key sectors of the U.S. economy, including healthcare, technology, and innovation.
“This Proclamation also sends a message that talent, hard work, and dedication are not welcome if they come from immigrant communities—especially those of color,” the statement said, adding that the measure risks undoing decades of progress made by South Asians and other immigrant groups in the United States.
The Foundation called on U.S. policymakers to reverse the decision, urging a focus on “comprehensive, humane immigration reform that respects the dignity of all workers — regardless of where they come from.” The group emphasized that diversity strengthens the nation and reaffirmed its solidarity with immigrant communities affected by the new policy.
