Starting in September 2025, the cost of applying for a new H-1B visa will rise to $100,000. This sharp increase is expected to make the work visa less accessible to many Indians seeking career opportunities in the United States. Combined with stricter immigration policies, professionals are now exploring more stable and predictable alternatives.
Interest in the EB-1A and EB2-NIW visa categories is rising rapidly. The EB-1A visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, business, arts, education, or athletics. It allows applicants to self-petition without employer sponsorship, making it an attractive option for top talent. Applicants must meet at least three out of ten strict eligibility criteria and prove sustained achievements in their field.
The EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver) also offers a self-sponsorship path to a green card for those whose work benefits the national interests of the United States. These options are gaining popularity, especially among Indian professionals looking for long-term immigration security amid frequent job cuts in sectors like tech.
Recent immigration data shows that EB-1A applications increased by 56% in the first quarter of FY25, as more high-skilled professionals aim for control over their immigration process without relying on their employers. With Indians making up a large portion of skilled migrants, they are expected to represent a significant share of this growth.
As the H-1B visa becomes more expensive and unpredictable, EB-1A and EB2-NIW are quickly becoming the preferred route for India’s brightest professionals aiming to achieve their American Dream.
