H-1B These days, Visa is in the news for rising sharply in price, and many people are talking of going over budget by spending $100,000, or more over INR 88 lakhs, in September 2025.
Many workers from all over the world are astonished and saddened by the U.S. government’s recent announcement of an unusual policy change: a raise in visas.
There is no doubt that this proposed $100,000 charge on new H-1B applications has dashed many people’s glitzy American aspirations! Now what? Here are several intriguing (and far less expensive) permanent-residency (PR) possibilities that you might look into in other nations if you are an Indian searching for long-term migration choices.
Canada
Canada is at the top of the list. Express Entry, Federal Skilled Worker, Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class, and Provincial Nominee Programs are the economic avenues that provide both direct and permanent residency. The nation is renowned for its point-based selection process. Even after factoring in settlement money and government expenses, the documented cash need is still much less than the $100,000 H-1B price!
Australia
Another well-known nation for providing Indians with PRs is Australia. Points-tested skilled visas provide straight permanent residency provided you fulfill employment and skills assessment requirements and earn enough points. The Department of Home Affairs reports that in 2025, the principal applicant’s official visa application fee for these skilled visas was around AUD 4,910 (INR 2,87,955) (with lesser payments for subsidiary applicants). Much less expensive!
The New Zealand
New Zealand is another country that permits talented individuals to get a PR. Government costs for resident visas under the skilled migrant category are often between NZD 4,000 and 6,500 (about INR 2 to 4 lakhs), depending on the kind of application. In comparison to a new H-1B cost, the government fees and supporting documentation are little.
Portugal
If you can demonstrate a steady passive income stream (pension, rental income, remote salary), Portugal may also be a viable option. Portugal offers affordable permanent residence and citizenship with the D7 visa. The D7 income limits are low, which attracts seniors and remote workers since it does not need a significant financial investment—much less than $100,000!
Germany, Ireland, and a number other EU nations
Other nations, like Germany, Ireland, and several other EU states, allow professionals or freelancers to remain there with the possibility of obtaining permanent status. Instead of large lump amounts, they demand evidence of income and small government levies. Additionally, some nations issue “Golden Visas”, which are less expensive than H-1Bs but have their own set of advantages.
Knowing that “cheaper” in this context refers to legitimate government fees and recorded cash required by immigration officials is crucial. Skills tests, medical exams, police checks, legal/agent fees, and settlement charges are just a few of the many additional expenses and qualifications that are necessary.
However, the sum of these costs is also much less than an increase of $100,000 for H-1B fees!