Breaking News: US Clarifies H-1B Visa Policy, Existing Holders Exempt from $100,000 Fee
The United States has issued a clarification to its new H-1B visa policy, stating that the proposed $100,000 fee for skilled workers will not apply to current visa holders. This announcement comes after initial confusion sparked by US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick's comment on Friday.
Timeline:
On September 19, 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order introducing a new H-1B visa policy, which included the $100,000 fee for skilled workers. On Saturday, September 21, the US clarified that this fee will be levied per petition and only applies to new visa applications.
Immediate Impact:
Major tech firms, including Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Alphabet (Google's parent company), have warned employees about the potential impact of the policy on their workforce. These companies rely heavily on H-1B visas for skilled workers and had expressed concerns about the initial proposal.
Background Context:
The H-1B visa program allows US employers to sponsor foreign workers with specialized skills, particularly in technology and healthcare. The new policy aimed to increase revenue from these applications but sparked controversy among tech companies and experts who argued it would harm their ability to attract top talent.
What Happens Next:
As the clarification is issued, existing H-1B visa holders can breathe a sigh of relief. However, the $100,000 fee will still apply to new applicants, which may lead to increased costs for employers seeking to sponsor foreign workers. The US government has not provided further details on how this policy will be implemented or enforced.
*This story is developing. Information compiled from Aljazeera reporting.*
