Indian students have become the top hiring choice in the United States, following a major policy change that gives them a distinct advantage.
The U.S. government recently announced a $100,000 visa surcharge for H-1B applicants applying from outside the country. However, this fee does not apply to international students already studying in the U.S. on F-1 visas.
This means Indian students pursuing their education in America can transition to jobs without their employers paying the hefty surcharge, making them the preferred candidates for U.S. companies.
The rule, which took effect in October 2025, has already begun influencing corporate hiring trends, especially in the tech and engineering sectors.
According to reports in Financial Express, companies are now more inclined to recruit F-1 students already in the U.S. rather than hire from abroad.
This shift makes the F-1 to OPT (Optional Practical Training) to H-1B route even more attractive for Indian students.
Experts say the change rewards those who have invested in a U.S. education, offering them better job security and career prospects.
Employers, particularly in Silicon Valley, are leveraging university career fairs and internship programs to tap into the pool of STEM-OPT graduates, who are legally allowed to work while awaiting sponsorship.
Hiring from within the U.S. is now not only cost-effective but also strategically beneficial, given the ongoing global competition for tech talent.
While the new rule sparked initial concerns, analysts note that it may actually work in favor of Indian students already studying in the U.S.
The policy reduces barriers for local hiring, creating a smoother transition from academic programs to full-time employment.
However, experts also caution that competition remains fierce, and students must continue focusing on skill development, internships, and networking to stand out.
The visa fee change may simplify hiring, but success in the U.S. job market still depends on talent, timing, and adaptability.