India, Sept. 20 -- "This is devastating. I can't express it in words," said one Indian technology professional in Silicon Valley to HT as news of US President Donald Trump's H1-B visa fee hike spread on Saturday.

"I've invested a lot of time here in America. I'm staying positive right now but there are times when it's hard," adds another Indian professional on an Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa, who was hoping to secure an H1B sponsorship and stay on in America after completing a master's degree.

A pervasive mood of fear and uncertainty looms large among many in the Indian diaspora, particularly young professionals working for technology firms.

For these individuals, the Trump administration's decision to hike H1-B visa applicat...