(New York, NY – September 23, 2025) – The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has formally appealed to the White House to reconsider or significantly reduce the proposed increase in H1-B visa fees. The organization emphasized that maintaining reasonable fees is crucial for sustaining America’s long-term economic growth and global competitiveness. The appeal was issued jointly by GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and President Prakash Shah.
“Our members in the U.S. are dedicated to supporting policies that strengthen the nation’s economy, innovation, and global leadership,” GOPIO stated in its letter.
Dr. Abraham highlighted the importance of the H1-B visa program: “For decades, H1-B professionals have fueled American innovation and growth. A sharp increase in fees could undermine this vital program and negatively impact the nation’s best interests.”
The letter detailed the key contributions of H1-B visa holders to the United States:
- Innovation and Global Competitiveness: Many H1-B workers specialize in STEM fields, including technology, biotechnology, and engineering, addressing critical talent gaps. Their expertise drives patents, new technologies, and maintains U.S. leadership in innovation.
- Support for the U.S. Labor Market: H1-B professionals complement American workers, filling highly specialized roles and enabling businesses to grow, creating additional employment opportunities for U.S. citizens.
- Strengthening Core Industries: From tech giants to hospitals, universities, and research centers, H1-B talent is essential for scientific, medical, and technological advancements.
- Encouraging Entrepreneurship: Numerous H1-B holders become successful entrepreneurs, founding companies that employ thousands, including icons like Google, Tesla, and Intel.
- Economic Contributions: H1-B visa holders contribute billions in federal, state, and local taxes, support Social Security and Medicare, and stimulate local economies through consumer spending.
- Future Workforce Stability: Skilled immigrants help offset workforce shortages caused by an aging population while building international connections that strengthen U.S. economic and diplomatic ties.
President Prakash Shah added, “America thrives by attracting top talent from around the world. Excessive H1-B fees could discourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth, weakening the country’s global advantage.”
GOPIO has encouraged community members to contact the White House to express support for reconsidering the fee increase.
About GOPIO
Founded in 1989, GOPIO is a non-partisan, secular, not-for-profit organization with members from over 100 chapters across 36 countries. The organization works to foster global connections between NRIs/PIOs and local communities, promoting collaboration, networking, and the development of future opportunities for the Indian diaspora and host countries.
