Trump Imposes $100,000 Fee on H-1B Visa Applications, Tech Sector Braces for Impact

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on all H-1B visa applications and renewals, a dramatic policy shift that could reshape the flow of skilled foreign workers into the United States.

The new fee, effective September 21, 2025, marks a steep jump from previous charges, which had been in the hundreds of dollars. The H-1B program is widely used by technology firms, financial institutions, and research organizations to hire highly skilled workers, many from India, Pakistan, and other parts of Asia.

The Trump administration said the measure is intended to prioritize American workers, forcing companies to reconsider whether foreign hires are indispensable. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick described the change as part of a “broader restructuring of the immigration system.”

Tech industry leaders have warned of severe consequences, saying the high fee could discourage innovation, create talent shortages, and disrupt projects reliant on specialized expertise. Some companies are already reassessing overseas assignments and internal staffing strategies.

Legal experts also anticipate court challenges, arguing that such sweeping changes to visa fees typically require Congressional approval.

The move comes alongside new “gold card” and “platinum card” residency programs for wealthy investors, underscoring the administration’s shift toward favoring capital inflows while restricting labor migration.