The recent tightening of the H-1B visa program by the United States is merely a temporary obstacle for India's technology sector, according to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. He asserts that the fundamental cost and skill advantages offered by Indian professionals will ensure long-term demand from global markets.
Global Demand for Indian Tech Talent
Chief Minister Naidu, a visionary leader who foresaw Hyderabad's potential as a cyber hub decades ago, emphasized that Indian tech professionals remain in high demand worldwide. He pointed out that they provide a powerful combination of advanced technical skills and significant cost advantages, making them indispensable. Notably, the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana contribute the largest number of Indian tech experts who travel to the US on H-1B visas.
Understanding the US Visa Policy Shift
The landscape changed when US President Donald Trump initiated a major overhaul of the H-1B visa system. A key change was the introduction of a supplemental fee of USD 1 lakh for new visa petitions submitted on or after September 21, 2025. While the initial justification was to prevent program misuse, Trump has since softened his position, acknowledging that America needs to attract foreign talent for highly technical and complex roles that domestic resources cannot fill.
"Cost is very, very important...you (Indian techies) are providing cost-effective services. They are bound to depend on us. That is going to happen. I am very clear," Naidu stated in an interview with PTI. He firmly believes that any restrictions placed on Indian professionals will not halt their progress, labelling the current situation a "temporary setback".
New Opportunities on the Horizon
When questioned about providing opportunities for tech workers affected by the new visa regulations, the Chief Minister expressed strong optimism. He indicated that immense opportunities are emerging within India itself as the nation embraces next-generation technologies. Sectors like the indigenous 4G tech stack, satellites, drones, and AI quantum computing are poised for growth. "We will create opportunities," Naidu affirmed.
Simultaneously, as US visa scrutiny increases, other developed nations are actively recruiting skilled Indian engineers. Countries including Canada, Australia, the UK, and those in Europe and the Middle East are seeking expertise in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies.
Industry analysts observe that many global companies are adjusting their hiring strategies to tap into India's deep talent pool and economic efficiency. This is happening through an increase in remote roles and the expansion of engineering centres within India. This strategic shift is opening new career pathways for tech professionals from Andhra Pradesh and other parts of the country. Industry bodies reinforce that the ongoing global digital transformation ensures a sustained need for specialized skills, keeping Indian professionals well-positioned in the international market despite short-term changes in US immigration policy.
