India Updates Global Visa Rules and Fees
Major immigration updates include increased UK visa fees for visitors and skilled workers, new H-1B filing forms for the US, and the launch of the EU's biometric Entry/Exit System. These changes will impact Indian expats and nomads through higher relocation costs and digitized border processing across Europe.
India Updates Global Visa Rules and Fees
Significant shifts in immigration policy across the US, UK, and EU are changing the travel landscape for Indian professionals and remote workers. These updates, effective this month, introduce higher costs and stricter digital tracking for those moving between India and the West.
The Policy Changes The US has implemented a mandatory update to Form I-129 for H-1B petitions. This revised document requires employers to provide granular wage data and job descriptions, signaling a move toward prioritizing high-skilled roles.
In the UK, visa fees have increased by approximately 6-7%. Standard visitor visas have risen to £135, while skilled worker visas now cost £819. Additionally, the UK has completed its transition to digital e-visas, replacing physical passport stickers with a digital-only UKVI account system.
Across the Schengen Area, the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is now fully operational at all 29 borders. This system replaces manual passport stamps with biometric scans, including facial recognition and fingerprints, to strictly automate the enforcement of the 90/180-day rule.
Who It Affects Indian tech workers and professionals are the primary group impacted by the US form changes. Digital nomads and frequent travelers to Europe face the most scrutiny under the EES, as the system provides authorities with instant, automated alerts regarding overstays. Expats relocating to the UK will need to budget for the increased application costs and sponsor license fees.
What to Do
- For the US: Ensure all H-1B filings use the version of Form I-129 revised on February 27, 2026.
- For the UK: Prepare for higher fees and ensure your UKVI digital account is active, as physical documents are no longer issued.
- For the EU: Expect longer queues during your first entry after April 10 to register biometrics.
Stay informed on the latest visa updates to avoid travel disruptions. Read our full India guide for the complete picture.