United States of America Imposes $100,000 Fee on H-1B Visas

The United States has announced a major change to its H-1B visa program, introducing a $100,000 fee for new applications. The policy, signed by President Donald Trump on September 19, will apply to petitions filed on or after September 21. Existing visa holders and renewals are not affected. Although initially reported as an annual charge, the White House clarified it is a one-time fee tied to each new petition.

The administration argues that the change is necessary to curb misuse of the H-1B program, protect American jobs, and address national security concerns. Officials say the high cost will discourage overreliance on foreign labor and push companies to invest in U.S. workers. Critics, however, view the measure as politically motivated and damaging to the economy, warning it could restrict access to top global talent.

The impact is expected to be significant. Large firms may absorb the cost, but smaller companies and startups could struggle, potentially reducing their ability to hire skilled foreign professionals. Workers, particularly from India which accounts for the majority of H-1B applicants, face fewer opportunities and greater uncertainty. Observers warn the policy could undermine U.S. competitiveness, disrupt tech innovation, and strain diplomatic ties with countries heavily affected.

The move has drawn strong reactions worldwide. India’s government and its IT industry body, Nasscom, called the policy disruptive and harmful to families and businesses. U.S. companies, including major tech firms, expressed concern about losing critical talent, while the U.S. Chamber of Commerce described the rule as economically damaging and destabilizing for employers.

Although framed as a way to safeguard American workers, the $100,000 H-1B fee may instead accelerate offshoring, deter skilled migrants, and erode the United States’ position as a global hub for innovation. Legal challenges and diplomatic pushback are expected, but for now, the cost of bringing foreign talent to the U.S. has risen to unprecedented levels.