US Chamber Sues Over $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee, Claims Federal Law Violation

A major legal battle has erupted over a new U.S. visa fee. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is suing the Trump administration. The lawsuit targets a planned $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications.

The complaint was filed against the Departments of Homeland Security and State. According to the Associated Press, the Chamber argues the fee is unlawful. It claims the move would severely damage American businesses.

Business Group Claims Fee Harms Economic Growth

The Chamber calls the fee cost-prohibitive. It says the charge would hurt startups and smaller companies the most. These businesses often rely on the H-1B program to find specialized talent.

The group’s chief policy officer, Neil Bradley, explained the concern. He stated the program was created by Congress to help U.S. companies grow. The new fee directly contradicts that goal, he argues.

Legal Challenge Centers on Presidential Authority

The lawsuit claims President Trump overstepped his legal authority. It states the President cannot contradict laws passed by Congress. The power to set such fees, the Chamber insists, lies with lawmakers.

A White House spokesperson defended the action. Taylor Rogers told Newsweek the fee is a lawful and necessary step. She said it begins important reforms to the H-1B program.

Despite the legal fight, the Chamber praised other administration efforts. It specifically acknowledged work to secure the U.S.-Mexico border. The group expressed a desire to work on broader immigration reforms.

The outcome of this lawsuit could reshape how U.S. companies hire global talent. The $100,000 H-1B visa fee represents a significant new cost for American businesses. The court’s decision will have major implications for the future of skilled immigration.

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What is the H-1B visa program used for?

The H-1B program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. These fields often require specialized knowledge, such as in technology or science. The program is designed to help companies when domestic talent is scarce.

How much is the new H-1B visa fee?

The proposed new fee is $100,000 per application. This is a significant increase from current costs. Immigration attorneys note the fee has not yet appeared in the current application process.

Who filed the lawsuit against the visa fee?

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce filed the legal complaint. It is one of the nation’s largest business advocacy groups. The lawsuit names the Departments of Homeland Security and State as defendants.

What is the main argument against the fee?

The Chamber argues the fee violates federal law. It states the President lacks the authority to impose such a cost without congressional approval. The group also says it would harm the U.S. economy.

Has the Trump administration commented on the lawsuit?

A White House spokesperson defended the fee. The administration believes the action is lawful and necessary. They see it as an initial step toward reforming the H-1B program.