A major change has come into effect today for foreign employees wishing to work in America and for tech companies. President Donald Trump has implemented a new rule regarding H-1B visas, under which a one-time fee of 100,000 US dollars will now have to be paid for every new H-1B visa application.
WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order on Friday, September 19, 2025, increasing the H-1B visa fee to 100,000 US dollars (approximately 90 lakh Indian rupees). There is apprehension that Trump's decision will adversely affect Indian professionals working in the United States.
However, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, a White House official clarified that this new fee will only apply to new applicants and will not affect existing visa holders.
What is an H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa for the United States. Under this visa, American companies can employ foreign professionals in their firms. Generally, this visa is granted to scientists, IT specialists, software engineers, programmers, and those working in the technical sector. Its initial validity is 3 years, which can later be extended for a maximum of 6 years. This is why this visa is considered extremely important for Indian IT professionals and tech companies.
When will the new rule come into effect?
According to a press release issued by the White House, the new rule came into effect on September 21, 2025. President Trump signed it on September 19. Now, a fee of $100,000 will be mandatory with every new H-1B application. Applications submitted without the fee will be automatically canceled. Employees whose applications are canceled will not be granted entry into the United States.
Who will the new rule apply to?
A senior White House official clarified that this rule will only apply to new applicants.
- It will not affect old H-1B visa holders.
- Those whose visas are due for renewal will not have to pay this additional fee.
- This rule will apply from the upcoming H-1B lottery cycle.
- It will not impact the winners of the 2025 lottery.
Tech Companies' Reaction
Immediately after Trump's decision, there was increased agitation among major tech companies in America. Microsoft has advised its foreign employees to remain in the United States. Amazon, Meta, and Google (Alphabet) have asked employees who had gone abroad to return immediately. JPMorgan, a giant in the financial sector, has also issued an advisory for its employees to exercise caution.
Companies believe that such a high fee will create difficulties for small and medium-sized IT companies. This could lead to a shortage of foreign talent in the United States.
Trump's Rationale: National Security and Misuse
President Donald Trump has stated that the H-1B visa is being widely misused. According to him, many outsourcing companies use it for their own commercial interests. This practice is becoming a threat to national security. He mentioned that law enforcement agencies are now investigating this misuse.
Under the new rule, before any H-1B visa application, companies will have to prove that they have paid the $100,000 fee. For this, companies will need to keep the payment certificate safe.
