America Inc criticises rise in US visa fee

The American corporate sector has criticised the US government move to increase visa fees for IT professionals.

The US Chamber of Commerce, in a letter to the members of the House of Representatives said: “The Chamber is extremely concerned that these fee hikes would undermine US economic competitiveness, growth and job creation, while undercutting critical trade relationships with countries that have an interest in liberalised movement of skilled personnel.”

The US Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of more than three million businesses and organisations.

The letter written by Bruce Josten, executive vice president, government affairs, of the Chamber of Commerce, said the Senate amendment would impose fee increases on a segment of the global information services industry that utilise temporary non-immigrant visas to bring in skilled professionals with specialised knowledge to serve US-based customers.

“The value and expertise US companies receive from global services firms have made them more globally competitive, increased US exports, and fuelled innovation, growth and job creation in the US,” he said. Meanwhile, the US-India Business Council (USIBC) called upon Congress and the Administration to oppose funding methods. “It is unfortunate that the Congress passed a bill that not only links India to border security with Mexico, but also does not take into account the terrible economic impact this will have for the United States,” noted USIBC President Ron Somers.