Washington, D.C. | September 21, 2025
The White House has clarified details of the newly announced $100,000 H-1B visa fee, confirming that it applies only to new petitions filed after September 21, 2025, and not to existing visa holders or renewals.
According to administration officials, the fee is a one-time charge per petition and will not recur annually, correcting earlier confusion sparked by contradictory remarks from officials.
Individuals currently holding valid H-1B visas, including those outside the United States, will not be required to pay the fee when re-entering or extending their status.
The policy, introduced under a presidential proclamation, includes provisions for case-by-case exemptions in the national interest. The measure is scheduled to remain in effect for one year, with the possibility of extension.
The announcement has triggered concerns in India, the largest source of H-1B applicants, where officials warn of potential humanitarian and business disruptions.
Nigeria and other countries are closely monitoring the implications for global talent mobility, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors that rely heavily on skilled professionals.
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields such as information technology, engineering, and healthcare.
The new fee represents a significant policy shift, raising questions about future access to the U.S. labor market for international talent.
