H-1B Workers Urged to Return to US to Avoid Visa Stranding

President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a massive new fee on H-1B visas. The order takes effect at 12:01 am on September 21, 2025. This move has triggered an immediate response from major corporations and legal experts.

Immigration attorneys are now warning H-1B visa holders abroad to return to the United States. They fear workers could be stranded and denied re-entry if they miss the deadline.

New $100,000 Fee Creates Travel Panic

The proclamation restricts entry for nonimmigrant workers in specialty occupations. Their H-1B petitions must now be accompanied by a payment of USD 100,000. This policy directly impacts thousands of Indian professionals and other foreign workers.

According to internal communications, companies like Microsoft are taking urgent action. They have advised employees on H-1B visas to avoid all international travel. Those currently outside the US are being told to return before the September 21 deadline.

Many workers on vacation or business trips now face a frantic race against the clock. New York-based immigration attorney Cyrus Mehta highlighted the extreme time pressure. He noted that individuals in India may have already missed the chance for a timely return.

Broader Impact on Tech Industry and Families

The policy’s repercussions extend beyond the primary visa holders. Dependents on H-4 visas are also being advised to stay in the US. This is despite the proclamation not explicitly mentioning them.

Industry experts have condemned the move. David Bier of the Cato Institute called the policy discriminatory. He stated that Indian H-1B workers have contributed an “unfathomable amount” to America through taxes and innovation.

The new fee creates significant uncertainty for the entire tech sector. It disrupts business operations and international collaboration. The long-term effects on America’s competitiveness in global talent acquisition remain a major concern.

This development represents a seismic shift in US immigration policy. The immediate focus is on preventing H-1B visa holders from becoming stranded abroad. The new $100,000 fee creates a substantial barrier for specialized workers seeking entry.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new H-1B visa fee?

President Trump’s proclamation imposes a USD 100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. This fee is required for entry into the United States for workers in specialty occupations.

When does the new rule start?

The proclamation is set to take effect at 12:01 am on September 21, 2025. This has created an urgent deadline for workers currently outside the country.

Are H-4 visa dependents affected?

While the order does not mention H-4 dependents, companies are advising them to remain in the US. This is a precautionary measure to avoid potential re-entry issues.

Which companies are advising employees?

Major tech firms like Microsoft have issued internal guidance. They are telling H-1B employees to avoid travel and return to the US immediately.

What happens if someone misses the deadline?

Individuals outside the US after the deadline risk being denied re-entry. Their H-1B petition would need to include the new $100,000 fee for approval.

Why was this policy implemented?

The administration stated the move protects American workers. It aims to restrict entry for certain nonimmigrant workers during economic recovery periods.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, BBC News, The Economic Times.