In a sweeping immigration policy overhaul, U.S. President Donald J. Trump has signed a presidential proclamation effective September 21, 2025, mandating a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications. The administration described this move as essential to prevent abuse of the H-1B system and to ensure that only “truly highly skilled” foreign workers are admitted. The proclamation, titled “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” argues that many employers have misused the program to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor, depress wages, and hire for lower-skill positions under the guise of H-1B sponsorship.
According to White House officials, the new fee applies only to new H-1B visa petitioners and to individuals currently outside the U.S. seeking entry under H-1B status. Existing visa holders and those renewing their visas, provided they were issued before September 21, will not be required to pay the additional fee. Officials also clarified that the fee is a one-time payment tied to the petition and not an annual levy on current visa holders.
The policy has sparked swift reactions worldwide. The Indian government has expressed concern that the steep fee could disrupt families and negatively impact the livelihoods of Indian nationals, who form one of the largest groups of H-1B recipients. U.S. tech companies and immigration experts have also warned that the sudden overhaul could hurt the technology sector, which relies heavily on skilled professionals from India, China, and other countries. Critics further argue that the proclamation may face legal challenges, raising questions about executive overreach and whether such sweeping changes can be implemented without legislative approval.
