The United States has implemented a major change to its H-1B visa program. A new $100,000 fee for specific visa petitions is now in effect. The rule was signed by President Donald Trump on Saturday. It targets companies seeking high-skilled foreign workers.
This move has created significant uncertainty within the global technology sector. Companies that rely heavily on international talent are assessing the impact. The fee applies to new H-1B visa petitions starting today, September 21.
Breaking Down the New H-1B Visa Fee Structure
The new rule mandates a $100,000 payment for certain H-1B visa petitions. This fee is required for petitions filed for high-skilled jobs typically requiring a bachelor’s degree. According to Reuters, the tech industry will feel the greatest impact.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt provided clarifications on social media. She stated the fee is a one-time cost per petition. It is not an annual charge for companies. This clarification followed initial confusion about the fee’s structure.
The rule is scheduled to expire after one year. The administration could extend it if deemed in the national interest. The fee took effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time today.
Immediate Impact and Industry Reaction
The regulation exempts current H-1B visa holders from the new fee. Existing workers can travel and re-enter the U.S. under their current visa terms. Renewals for these workers are also not subject to the charge.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick supported the proclamation. He stated the measure aims to protect American jobs. The goal is to prevent companies from favoring foreign workers over domestic talent.
The tech industry expresses deep concern. Many firms depend on specialized global talent for key positions. This fee significantly increases the cost of hiring skilled professionals from abroad.
The new financial burden may force companies to reconsider hiring strategies. Some may relocate positions overseas to avoid the fee. Others might accelerate automation efforts to reduce dependency on human labor.
The $100,000 H-1B visa fee represents a seismic shift in U.S. immigration policy for skilled workers. Its full impact on the technology sector and American competitiveness will unfold in the coming months. Companies are now navigating this expensive new landscape for global talent.
Info at your fingertips
Who has to pay the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee?
The employer sponsoring the visa must pay the fee. It is not paid by the individual employee. This cost applies to new petitions for high-skilled positions.
Do current H-1B visa holders need to pay this fee?
No. White House officials confirmed existing visa holders are exempt. The fee only applies to new visa petitions, not renewals for current holders.
How long will this visa fee rule remain in effect?
The rule is initially set to expire after one year. The administration may extend it beyond that date if they determine it serves U.S. interests.
Which industries are most affected by this change?
The technology sector is most significantly impacted. It traditionally relies heavily on H-1B visas to fill specialized roles requiring advanced skills.
Is the $100,000 fee required annually?
No. Officials clarified it is a one-time fee per petition. It is not an annual recurring charge for companies employing visa holders.
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