Chaos at airports, as air fares double after Trump’s H-1B visa fee hike

A massive uproar broke out after US President Donald Trump announced a sudden increase in H-1B visa fees to $100,000 (approximately Rs 88 lakh). The new regulation, which will be enforced starting September 21, 2025, has left thousands scrambling with very little time to respond.

The announcement triggered chaotic scenes at airports, with several passengers choosing to disembark from flights within the US upon learning of the rule. Many Indian travellers, who were heading home for the festive season, found themselves caught in the uncertainty.

Also Read: Trump announces USD 100,000 H1-B visa fee in move that could impact Indian workers in US

The situation turned grim for those stranded in India as well, with airfares skyrocketing shortly after the news broke. Indians, who account for nearly 70% of all H-1B visa holders, fear that this sudden move will hit them the hardest.

As per the new order, all H-1B visa holders must be inside the United States before 12:01 a.m. EDT (9:31 p.m. IST) on September 21. Anyone arriving later will not be permitted entry unless their employer pays the hefty new fee.

Major companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and JP Morgan, have issued urgent advisories instructing their H-1B employees not to leave the US. Those already overseas have been told to return immediately to avoid getting stranded.

US immigration lawyer Cyrus Mehta explained the gravity of the situation: “H-1B workers currently outside the US may not make it back in time. Direct flights from India won’t even reach before the deadline, leaving many stuck abroad.”
Meanwhile, airlines saw ticket prices surge within hours. A one-way New Delhi–New York flight shot up to Rs 70,000–80,000, compared to the earlier average of Rs 37,000. Some passengers reported seeing prices touch nearly $4,500.

The panic was evident not only in India but also within the US. Social media users described scenes of confusion at airports like San Francisco, where several passengers reportedly left their flights in fear of being locked out under the new rules.