Trump Introduces $100k Fee for H-1B Visas, Sending Tech Industry into Chaos

Trump's Surprise $100k Fee for H-1B Visas Sparks Chaos Among Tech Workers In a sudden move on Friday, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation introducing a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas, which are meant for high-skilled jobs that tech companies struggle to fill. The surprise announcement has left many immigrant workers and immigration lawyers scrambling to understand the implications of this drastic change. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the new fee applies only to new visa applicants, not current holders who are outside the country. "This applies only to new visas, not renewals, and not current visa holders," Leavitt clarified in a statement on X. The fee takes effect at 12:01 a.m. ET Sunday. Immigration lawyer Andrew Harnik expressed his concerns about the short notice given for this significant change. "It inserts total chaos in the existing H-1B process with basically a day's notice," Harnik said. "This is going to cause a lot of problems for people who are trying to get these visas." The new fee has sparked debate among immigration experts and lawmakers, with some arguing that it will deter skilled workers from coming to the United States while others see it as a necessary step to protect American jobs. Background on H-1B Visas H-1B visas are issued for high-skilled jobs in fields such as technology, engineering, and healthcare. The visas allow foreign workers to work in the US for up to six years, with the possibility of extending their stay through other visa categories. Critics argue that the new fee will disproportionately affect small businesses and startups that rely on H-1B workers to fill critical positions. "This is a huge burden on small businesses," said Mark Zuckerberg's sister, Donna Zuckerberg, who has been an outspoken advocate for immigration reform. "It will make it even harder for them to compete with larger companies." Supporters of the new fee argue that it will help protect American jobs and prevent companies from exploiting foreign workers. Current Status The White House has confirmed that the new fee applies only to new visa applicants, but many are still waiting for clarification on how this change will be implemented. Immigration lawyers are advising their clients to seek guidance from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before applying for a new H-1B visa. Next Developments As the new policy takes effect, lawmakers and immigration experts will continue to weigh in on its implications. The fate of the $100,000 fee remains uncertain, with some calling for it to be repealed or modified. In related news, Congress is expected to hold hearings on the impact of this change on the US economy and workforce. *Reporting by Fortune.*