H-1B fee hike may push US tech jobs to India GCCs

A former UN advisor, Santosh Meh, suggests that the recent H-1B visa fee hike will likely accelerate the relocation of US technology jobs to India-based Global Capability Centres (GCCs). As US companies face higher costs and regulatory hurdles for hiring foreign talent on H-1B visas, they are increasingly turning to India's GCC ecosystem to access skilled tech workers at lower costs. This trend could further boost India's position as a global technology hub, with GCCs expanding their presence and hiring across the country. The commentary comes amid ongoing discussions about the impact of US immigration policies on global talent mobility. Key signal: A former UN advisor argues that rising H-1B visa fees will accelerate the shift of US tech jobs to India-based GCCs. For hiring leaders, this matters because for CHROs and GCC leaders in India, this signals a potential surge in demand for tech talent as more US companies consider shifting roles to India. The H-1B fee hike makes offshore delivery more cost-effective, potentially accelerating GCC expansions and new centre openings. Talent acquisition teams should prepare for increased competition for skilled professionals, especially in emerging tech areas. Additionally, this could influence compensation trends and hiring strategies as global firms deepen their India footprint. Monitoring US policy changes is crucial for anticipating talent market shifts. Teksands view: The H-1B fee hike is a tailwind for India's GCC story, but it's not a magic bullet. Companies will still weigh quality, IP protection, and geopolitical risks. For hiring leaders, this means preparing for a possible influx of global roles—especially in AI, cloud, and engineering leadership. Build talent benches in tier-2 cities and invest in upskilling to capture this shift. The window is open, but it won't last forever.