Trump’s $100K H-1B Fee: Does It Apply for Visa Re-Entry?

Trump’s New $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Sparks Corporate Panic and Travel Warnings.A new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applicants has been signed into law. The order was enacted by former President Donald Trump. It targets companies hiring new foreign skilled workers. The policy takes effect on September 21st.Corporate advisers and immigration lawyers are raising immediate alarms. They warn the fee will cripple small businesses and startups. Major tech firms are already advising current visa holders against international travel.

Uncertainty for Current Visa Holders and Re-Entry Rules

The most urgent question involves workers already in the program. According to BBC reporting, companies like Amazon have issued internal guidance. They are telling H-1B employees currently overseas to return before the deadline.Anyone outside the US after September 21st faces a serious risk. Customs officials may treat their re-entry as a new application. This would subject their employer to the massive new fee. It could also trigger additional scrutiny and potential denial.This has created considerable confusion for thousands of workers. Many are now canceling planned trips to visit family abroad. The policy creates a sudden barrier for talent crucial to the tech industry.

Broader Impact on US Competitiveness and Business

The long-term impact on American companies could be severe. Immigration law experts like Tahmina Watson warn the fee could be a “nail in the coffin” for small firms. Jorge Lopez of Littler Mendelson stated it will harm US competitiveness.Some companies might consider moving operations overseas to access talent. The H-1B program has been a key source of skilled labor for decades. India and China are the primary beneficiaries of the visa.The debate has long split opinion in the United States. Supporters say it provides access to top global talent. Critics argue it protects domestic jobs from foreign competition.

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The new $100,000 H-1B visa fee fundamentally alters the cost of hiring foreign talent. Its immediate effect is causing widespread uncertainty and travel restrictions for thousands of workers. The long-term consequences for US tech dominance remain a critical concern for industry leaders.

Info at your fingertips

Does the new $100,000 fee apply to existing H-1B holders in the US?

No. The fee officially applies only to new visa applications filed on or after September 21st. Current holders are not directly affected.

What should an H-1B worker do if they are outside the US now?

Companies are advising them to attempt to return before September 21st. If that is impossible, they should not attempt re-entry until their company provides clear guidance.

Which companies use the H-1B visa program the most?

According to available data, Amazon was the top beneficiary last year. It was followed by Tata Consultancy Services, Microsoft, Meta, and Google.

How many H-1B visas are granted each year?

The annual cap is set at 85,000 new visas. Applications for the next cycle recently fell to a four-year low of approximately 359,000.