Uncertainty Surrounds New $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee in US
2 Min Read
Confusion continues to swirl around the United States’ decision to impose a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions, with lawyers, applicants, and businesses raising concerns about its scope and legality.
The White House clarified that the fee will be a one-time charge, applying only to new petitions filed after 21 September 2025, including 2026 lottery applications. Current visa holders will not face restrictions on international travel, nor will renewals attract the additional cost. However, doubts remain about transfers between employers and other procedural scenarios.
The H-1B visa, a non-immigrant work permit allowing US companies to employ international professionals in specialised roles, has long been a gateway for talent in fields such as technology and engineering. In 2024, India accounted for 71% of approved H-1B visas and China for nearly 12%, making the two countries the most affected by sudden changes in the programme.
While the White House argued the measure targets employers that have “abused” the scheme to undercut American wages, critics say the policy risks damaging the US’s ability to attract global talent. High-profile tech firms including Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet have already urged staff to avoid travel disruptions ahead of the new fee.
Immigration lawyers warn that the language of the proclamation is ambiguous. James Hollis, a US business immigration attorney, noted that there is currently no mechanism for collecting the $100,000 fee, calling the policy “likely to invite legal challenges”. Other experts argue the US President lacks the authority to impose such a charge without congressional approval.
The announcement has sparked widespread anxiety among applicants. “The H-1B process is already complex. Adding such an extraordinary financial burden makes it harder for international graduates like me,” said Meet Patel, an applicant from India.
Reactions from India’s government have been sharp, warning of humanitarian consequences for families. While China’s government has not issued an official statement, social media users in the country expressed outrage at what many called a discriminatory move.
With further reforms to the visa system expected, including new wage thresholds and changes to the lottery process, the US immigration landscape looks set for a turbulent period ahead.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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