New Delhi, Aug. 26 -- The US has sharply raised costs and scrutiny for H-1B and L-1 visas, which will impact Indian IT and consulting firms. It has raised H-1B visa fees beyond $100,000 and paused new visa appointments globally. Such changes will force companies to ramp up offshore delivery models and rethink global talent strategies. Mint decodes

The latest US visa reforms impose a $103,265 surcharge on each H-1B visa, in addition to existing $2,000-$5,000 filing fees. The worker visa now favours high-wage applicants, reducing chances for entry-level professionals. L-1 visas (used by multinationals) face stricter audits, requiring proof of genuine intra-company transfers. Compliance burdens have increased, with mandatory disclosure of w...