Top Indian American immigration attorney hails Trump’s H-1B reforms as ‘light over darkness’ for international students

Recent reforms to the H-1B visa system will benefit international students rather than restrict them, according to prominent Indian American immigration attorney Aparna Dave.Speaking at the “Diaspora at the Crossroads: Law, Policy and Opportunities” conference in Bethesda, Maryland, earlier this week, Dave said the new executive orders from the Trump administration mark a positive shift for those pursuing education and skilled employment in the United States, reports New India Abroad. Dave explained that revisions to the H-1B lottery and allocation process, which now prioritise graduates with advanced U.S.

degrees, have created more opportunities for students finishing their studies in America. She described the changing visa regulations as “light over darkness” for those chasing the American dream through education and work pathways.Under the updated policy, which took effect in September 2025 following a presidential proclamation on H-1B reforms, international students with master’s or doctoral degrees from US institutions are more likely to be selected in the visa process.

The administration has said this approach aims to retain talent already trained in American universities, encouraging highly skilled graduates to remain in the country.However, the new system also brings higher filing costs and stricter employer requirements, which could impact smaller companies. Recent rules have raised H-1B petition fees to around USD 100,000 for some employers, alongside new wage guidelines intended to favour high-skilled roles.The MAGA administration has defended the reforms as a long-term investment in America’s innovation economy, saying the system will now “reward merit, not manipulation.” Supporters argue that prioritising advanced US degree holders will reduce visa misuse and ensure that only the most qualified candidates are selected. Critics, however, warn that the steep rise in fees and compliance costs could limit diversity in the tech workforce by sidelining smaller firms and startups that rely on global talent.

Immigration experts believe the true impact of these reforms will become clearer once the next H-1B lottery cycle begins in early 2026.