Latest Visa News: From H-1B Visa Fees to New Residency Options

From the H-1B Visa Fee Hike to Permanent Residencies, this week’s visa news is full of unexpected surprises and unseen opportunities. To take full advantage of the latest updates, let’s dive into it.

US H-1B Visa Fee Hike

Big visa news this week from the US. Starting 21 September 2025, every H-1B visa application will carry a steep $100,000 fee, valid for one year. This fee will be paid by the company sponsoring the employee to secure the visa for the foreign worker. The move is expected to hit Indian professionals the hardest, since over 70% of H-1B holders are from India. Renewals won’t be spared either, as each extension for those waiting on a Green Card will also cost the same. If you are planning to visit the United States, make sure to apply for a US visa online through trusted agents and stay updated on changing rules.

Japan PR Made Easier: A New Option for Indians

If the H1 b visa fees news made you upset, let’s focus on Japan for some good news. Japan has opened a new window for Indians by making Permanent Residency (PR) more attainable. It enables you to live in Japan permanently, change jobs at will, and create long-term security. The cost is only 8,000 Yen and processing takes 4-8 months; you’ll need to maintain a valid visa during this period.

If you are planning to visit Japan, make sure to apply for a Japan visa online in advance. If you are planning to explore, consider all-inclusive Japan tour packages for a hassle-free trip.

Finland PR Made Clearer: A Smart Option for Indian Professionals

Finland has revised its Permanent Residency (PR) regulations, providing a transparent route for Indian professionals, students, and families. Indians are currently eligible to apply after 4 years of uninterrupted stay on an A-type permit, but from January 2026, it will be 6 years. At least 2 years have to be spent in physical residence in Finland, and any foreign travel must be declared. Granting permission opens the door to healthcare, education, social security, and visa-free travel in the Schengen area. Others, though, will still require a Schengen visa to travel throughout Europe.

Also Read: Schengen Countries List 2025: Unlock the Doors to Visa-Free Adventure

Indonesia Launches “All Indonesia” App for Easier Entry

Indonesia has rolled out a new digital entry system, the “All Indonesia” app, now mandatory for all international visitors, including Indians. From September 1, 2025, major airports and seaports like Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, and Batam require the app, with nationwide enforcement from October 1, 2025. Travellers must submit personal, passport, health, and customs details up to 3 days before arrival. If you’ve already secured cheap flights to Jakarta, just remember that the app does not replace Indonesia visa, which must be applied for online.

South Africa Introduces ETA for Faster Entry: What Indians Need to Know

South Africa is launching a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system on 18 September 2025 to digitize and streamline short-term visa and entry. The ETA will initially be applicable on short stays of not more than 90 days at OR Tambo (Johannesburg) and Cape Town airports. Indian visitors to the G20 summit will be the first to utilize the ETA from mid-October 2025, while the system will extend to all Indian tourists by late November 2025. Indian tourists still apply for a South Africa visa for the time being.

If you are traveling to South Africa, make sure to stay at some of the best hotels in Cape Town to enjoy the culture and experience the region’s scenic beauty.

Germany Waives Visa Fees for Short-Term Indian Students

Germany has launched a free visa policy for Indian students, exempting Indian students from paying visa charges on short-term academic travel like school exchanges, research work, and cultural activities. The advantage goes only to short-term courses, full course programs still need regular Germany visa applications and fees. Students continue to show financial evidence (€11,904/annum), accommodation information, health insurance, and institutional invitation or enrollment proof.

Also Read: Forget Halloween, Visit the Underrated & Best Pumpkin Festivals

Wrapping Up

This week’s visa updates bring both challenges and opportunities for Indians. The H-1B visa fee news signals higher costs and uncertainty in the US, while Japan and Finland PR programs offer clearer paths to long-term residency. Indonesia’s “All Indonesia” app and South Africa’s ETA simplify short-term visits, and Germany’s gratis visa makes academic travel easier. Staying informed and planning ahead is key for Indian professionals, students, and travelers to navigate new fees and entry rules efficiently.

Have thoughts or experiences with these visa updates? Share your comments below about H-1B visa fee update, we’d love to hear how these changes affect your travel or career plans!

Keep Up with Weekly Visa Updates:

Latest Visa News: UAE, Cambodia & US Changes You Can’t Miss
Latest Visa News: Stricter Rules For Indians From September 2025
Latest Visa Updates: Upcoming Changes That Could Affect Applications

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