Breaking News: Trump Announces $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visa Applications
US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Friday, September 20, 2025, attaching a new annual $100,000 fee to H-1B visa applications. The move aims to incentivize more hiring of highly skilled US citizens.
Timeline and Details:
The proclamation affects the H-1B visa program, which provides a path for highly skilled workers to lawfully work in the US for three years. The program offers 85,000 visas annually under two categories. Visa applicants currently pay a small fee to enter a lottery, with another fee paid if an application is selected.
Immediate Impact and Response:
The new fee will significantly increase costs for companies recruiting foreign workers through the H-1B program. Tech giants like Google and Microsoft, which rely heavily on the visa program, may face increased expenses. The move could lead to a reduction in the number of H-1B applications submitted.
Background Context:
The H-1B visa program has been a contentious issue in US immigration policy. Critics argue that it allows companies to exploit cheap foreign labor, while supporters claim it fills skills gaps and drives innovation. In 2025, over 70% of approved beneficiaries under the program came from India.
What Happens Next:
The new fee will take effect immediately, with applicants required to pay the $100,000 fee as part of their application process. The move is expected to have far-reaching implications for the tech industry and US immigration policy. As the administration continues to tighten immigration rules, companies may need to adapt their hiring strategies or face increased costs.
*This story is developing. Information compiled from Dw reporting.*
