China K-Visa / US hikes H-1B visa fees, China introduces K-visa; allows applicants without a job offer

China K-Visa: The US has increased the H-1B visa fee to $100,000 (approximately ₹8.8 million) effective September 21, 2025, from a previous fee of between ₹5.5 and ₹6.7 million. This visa, which allows highly skilled professionals to work in the US, has now become more expensive than ever. The new fee will be applicable outright, but details of additional fees upon renewal are not yet clear. This increase could make it difficult for global professionals, especially Indian professionals, to work in the US. The H-1B visa is typically valid for three years and can be renewed for another three years by paying a fee.

China's New K-Visa: An Attractive Option for STEM Professionals

Meanwhile, China has announced the launch of a new K-Visa for young and skilled professionals working in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. According to the South China Morning Post, this visa will be effective from October 1, 2025. The unique feature of the K-visa is that it does not require a job offer from a Chinese company. Candidates pursuing research in STEM fields will also be able to apply.

China currently issues 12 types of visas, including the Z-visa (for work, valid for one year) and the R-visa (valid for 180 days, free of fees). However, the R-visa is less popular due to its complex application process. The K-visa will allow foreigners to stay for longer periods, although its validity period is not yet clear. Unlike the Z-visa, the K-visa will not require a new visa upon changing jobs and will allow for direct application based on education and experience.

There is currently no official information regarding K-visa fees. Comparatively, the Z-visa fee varies for different countries:

• For Indian citizens: ₹2,900
• For US citizens: ₹2,300
• For Canadian citizens: ₹8,500
• For Australian citizens: ₹5,500

In addition, a service charge (₹2,000-₹3,000 for Indians) is also added to the visa application. Detailed information regarding the K-visa will be provided by the Chinese embassy and consulate.

China's Strategy: Aims to Become a Technological Superpower by 2035

China is working towards becoming a global technological superpower by 2035. To this end, it has launched two major programs to attract foreign talent:

1. Talented Young Scientist Program: For researchers from Asia and Africa up to 45 years of age who wish to work and conduct research in China.
2. Outstanding Young Scientist Fund Project: To encourage top scientists and engineers up to 40 years of age to work in China.

In addition, leading Chinese universities and research institutes are offering attractive salaries and bonuses to attract the best students and researchers.

UK's Global Talent Visa Scheme: Possibility of Fee Waiver

UK is also considering changes to its visa policies to attract highly skilled professionals. According to a Reuters report, Britain is considering completely waiving the Global Talent Visa fee (currently 766 pounds, approximately ₹90,000) for individuals who have studied at the world's top 5 universities or have won international awards. This change could be announced before the UK budget on November 26, 2025.

New Competition in the Race for Global Talent

The steep increase in US H-1B visa fees could limit opportunities for global professionals, making China's K-visa an attractive option. On the other hand, the UK's Global Talent Visa fee waiver scheme could be a major step toward attracting highly skilled individuals. These changes reflect new competition in the race to attract global talent, where countries are trying to make their policies more flexible and attractive.