Will EAM Jaishankar and Marco Rubio Discuss H-1B Visa Fee Hike Today?
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Synopsis
In a critical meeting during the UNGA, EAM Jaishankar and Secretary Rubio will discuss pressing issues affecting US-India relations, including the recent H-1B visa fee hike. With ongoing trade tensions, this dialogue could significantly impact bilateral ties. Stay tuned for insights from this high-stakes engagement.
Key Takeaways
- Jaishankar and Rubio's meeting is crucial for US-India relations.
- The H-1B visa fee hike has created significant unrest in the tech sector.
- Trade tariffs have strained bilateral ties in recent months.
- Ongoing dialogue is necessary to address emerging challenges.
- This meeting may set the tone for future diplomatic engagements.
New York, Sep 22 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar is set to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in New York on Monday, as part of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, officials confirmed.
This meeting aims to build upon ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations and address the challenges that have arisen between the two nations recently.
This encounter marks the third in-person meeting between Jaishankar and Rubio this year, following their last discussion on July 1 during the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Washington.
Earlier in January, Jaishankar met Rubio shortly after the latter assumed office, also on the sidelines of a Quad meeting in Washington.
Monday's discussion will be the first direct engagement between the two leaders since tensions between New Delhi and Washington escalated over trade tariffs and India's procurement of Russian oil.
These tensions intensified when the United States imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian products, effective August 27.
This meeting coincides with a visit from Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who is leading a delegation for trade negotiations with the US.
Jaishankar's conversations with his American counterpart are anticipated to be pivotal, especially against the backdrop of the Trump administration's recent decision to increase the H-1B visa fee.
The proclamation signed by Trump has elevated the application fee for H-1B visas to $100,000, causing turmoil within the tech industry and uncertainty for employees dependent on this visa program.
However, in an exclusive statement to IANS, the White House indicated that this is a "one-time fee" applicable solely to new visas, rather than renewals or existing visa holders.
According to a White House official, "This is a one-time fee that applies only to the petition. It only applies to new visas, not renewals or current visa holders. It will first apply in the upcoming lottery cycle."
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also clarified on X, stating that those who already "hold H-1B visas and are currently outside the country will not be charged $100,000 to re-enter. H-1B visa holders can leave and re-enter the country," she mentioned.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the complexities surrounding international relations. The meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Secretary Rubio represents a pivotal moment in addressing both countries' economic and diplomatic challenges. The ongoing trade tensions and the controversial H-1B visa fee increase highlight the necessity for constructive dialogue and collaboration to foster mutual understanding and benefit.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the Jaishankar-Rubio meeting?
The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral relations and address recent tensions over trade tariffs and the H-1B visa fee increase.
When did Jaishankar and Rubio last meet?
Their last meeting took place on July 1 during the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Washington.
What is the new fee for H-1B visas?
The application fee for H-1B visas has been raised to $100,000.
Is the new H-1B visa fee applicable to current visa holders?
No, the fee applies only to new visa applications, not to renewals or current holders.
What other discussions are happening alongside this meeting?
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is also in the US for trade negotiations.
