USD 100,000 H-1B Visa Fee: One-Time Charge for New Applications, Not Renewals, Clarifies White House
The White House has provided a major clarification on the recently announced USD 100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, easing concerns among thousands of foreign workers and IT professionals, especially Indians. Contrary to earlier reports indicating the fee would be annual and also apply to renewals, the White House confirmed this is a one-time payment exclusively for new H-1B visa petitions.
Key Points:
- One-Time Fee for New Applicants Only
The USD 100,000 charge applies only to fresh H-1B visa applications, starting from the next visa lottery cycle. Current H-1B visa holders, including those traveling overseas, will not have to pay this amount upon renewal or re-entry. - No Fee for Renewals or Existing Visa Holders
The fee does not apply to visa renewals or those presently holding an H-1B visa, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the United States. Their rights to travel and work remain unaffected by the new policy. - Implementation Date and Legal Challenges
The new executive order takes effect on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 12:01 am US Eastern Time. However, it is anticipated to face legal challenges, and its long-term impact remains to be seen. - Industry Response
The initial confusion about the fee caused widespread concern among US tech companies and foreign workers. Some multinational firms advised their H-1B employees to delay travel abroad to avoid complications. The White House’s clarification has brought relief by ruling out any retroactive or recurring fee charges. - Impact on Indian IT Professionals
India is the largest source of H-1B visa holders in the US. The announcement sparked fears of disruption among Indian tech workers, but the one-time fee for new applicants lessens immediate pressure on current employees. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is monitoring the situation and working with US authorities to safeguard the interests of Indian nationals.
Background
This policy comes amid efforts by the Trump administration to reform the H-1B visa program, aimed at ensuring only highly skilled workers benefit while increasing costs for companies sponsoring foreign workers. The steep USD 100,000 fee was introduced as a measure to regulate the inflow of foreign talent.
Conclusion
While the hike in the H-1B visa fee marks a significant shift in US immigration policy, the White House’s clarification that the fee is not annual and applies strictly to new petitions provides some assurance to current visa holders and the tech industry. Prospective applicants should prepare for the increased cost, while current employees can continue their work and travel without fear of additional fees.
