Indian students in the United States have received significant relief following a recent clarification from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The agency confirmed that the newly imposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications does not apply to students and recent graduates already in the U.S. who are changing their status from F-1 to H-1B within the country. 

This exemption is particularly beneficial for students on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT, as it preserves their pathway to employment without incurring additional costs. Employers hiring these graduates can continue to file change-of-status petitions without the financial burden of the new fee. However, the fee still applies to new H-1B petitions for individuals outside the U.S. or those requiring consular processing.

Industry experts view this clarification as a positive development, ensuring that Indian students remain an attractive talent pool for U.S. employers, especially in high-demand fields like technology and engineering. It also reassures prospective students considering studying in the U.S., reinforcing the country's commitment to international talent.