Trump's $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Sparks Debate on Tech Jobs and Workers
A new executive order signed by President Donald Trump last week has imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, sparking debate among tech industry leaders and workers. The fee, which went into effect on September 21, 2025, applies to all new applications filed for foreign nationals abroad, but does not apply to renewals or existing visa holders.
According to the White House, the fee is intended to "ensure that foreign nationals who seek to work in the United States are truly exceptional and contribute significantly to our economy." However, critics argue that the high fee will disproportionately affect small and medium-sized businesses, as well as workers from underrepresented countries.
"The $100,000 fee is a significant barrier for many companies, especially those with limited resources," said Rohit Gupta, CEO of TechSpark, a startup accelerator. "It's not just about the cost; it's also about the time and effort required to navigate the complex visa application process."
The H-1B visa program allows foreign nationals to work in the United States for up to six years, with the possibility of permanent residency. The program has been a crucial source of talent for the tech industry, which relies heavily on international workers.
"Tech companies rely on H-1B visas to fill critical skills gaps and drive innovation," said David Risher, CEO of Microsoft. "The $100,000 fee will not only deter foreign nationals from applying but also limit our ability to attract top talent."
Background context: The H-1B visa program has been a contentious issue in recent years, with some arguing that it displaces American workers and others saying it is necessary for the tech industry's growth. In 2025, President Trump signed an executive order establishing the "Trump Gold Card," a visa program that allows foreign nationals to invest $1 million in the United States in exchange for permanent residency and a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
Additional perspectives: Some argue that the $100,000 fee is a necessary measure to ensure that foreign nationals contribute significantly to the U.S. economy. "We need to make sure that those who come here are truly exceptional and can drive innovation," said Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR). "The $100,000 fee will help us achieve this goal."
Current status: The new fee has already had an impact on the tech industry, with some companies announcing plans to reduce their reliance on H-1B visas. Others have expressed concerns about the potential consequences for workers and businesses.
Next developments: As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the $100,000 fee will affect the tech industry in the long term. Will it lead to a reduction in foreign nationals working in the United States, or will companies find ways to adapt? Only time will tell.
*Reporting by Forbes.*
