In a sweeping reform to the H-1B visa program, the United States has introduced a one-time $100,000 fee for all new H-1B petitions filed after 12:01 am EDT on September 21, 2025.
The proclamation, signed by President Donald Trump, aims to curb misuse and prioritise American workers.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) clarified that the fee will not affect existing H-1B holders, renewal applications, or re-entry petitions.
This move is part of a broader strategy to attract high-skilled talent while tightening eligibility.
Additional reforms include a revision of prevailing wage levels by the Department of Labour and a lottery system overhaul by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to favour high-paid, high-skilled applicants.
The Department of State (DOS) has also issued updated consular guidance for streamlined implementation.
While USCIS frames the changes as a safeguard for American jobs, reactions from the Indian tech community have been mixed. Experts caution that the long-term impact may increase operational costs for U.S. companies dependent on foreign talent.
