H-1B Visa Fee Hike Takes Effect as Trump Policy Enforced

A new US policy dramatically increases the cost of hiring skilled foreign workers. The H-1B visa fee has been raised to $100,000 per petition. The order was signed by President Donald Trump on Friday. It takes effect immediately.

The move aims to curb what the administration calls program “abuse.” Officials argue the change protects American jobs and wages. This decision has sent shockwaves through the technology and business sectors.

Corporate Response and Immediate Fallout from H-1B Visa Changes

Major companies are urgently advising their employees. Firms like JP Morgan, Amazon, and Microsoft have issued guidance. They are telling H-1B visa holders to remain in or return to the US promptly.

According to Reuters, the policy targets “relatively low-wage workers.” The proclamation states these workers undercut American labor opportunities. The goal is to refocus the program on filling genuine skills gaps.

This sudden shift has already impacted travel. Reports indicate a sharp rise in airfare prices. Many are rushing to return before facing potential new barriers or costs.

Understanding the Vast H-1B Visa Holder Population in the US

How many people does this policy affect? Official real-time numbers are not published. Data from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) only shows annual registrations.

A report from FWD.us provides a broader estimate. The advocacy group states there are roughly 730,000 H-1B visa holders. An additional 550,000 are their spouses and children.

Indians constitute the largest group of these visa holders. They account for approximately 70 percent of the total H-1B population in the United States.

This significant H-1B visa fee hike represents a fundamental restructuring of US immigration policy for skilled workers, with immediate economic and corporate consequences.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new H-1B visa fee?

The new fee is $100,000 per visa petition. This is a substantial increase from previous costs. The change was enacted by executive order.

Why was the H-1B visa fee increased?

The administration aims to prevent the undercutting of American wages. It claims some companies abuse the program by hiring lower-wage foreign workers for jobs Americans could fill.

How many H-1B visa holders are in the US?

An estimated 730,000 people hold H-1B visas. They are joined by about 550,000 dependents. This totals nearly 1.3 million US residents.

What is the economic impact of H-1B visa holders?

According to reports, they contribute $86 billion annually to the US economy. They also pay billions in federal, state, and local taxes each year.

Which companies rely most on H-1B visas?

Major tech and financial firms are significant users. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and JP Morgan employ many H-1B workers for specialized roles.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), FWD.us