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September 2025 US Immigration

H-1B Visa Programme: The $100,000 Fee and What It Means

On 19 September 2025, President Trump signed a Presidential Proclamation titled Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers that fundamentally changed the H-1B visa programme. The most significant element is the requirement for a $100,000 payment to accompany new H-1B petitions.

Who Is Affected

The $100,000 requirement applies to new H-1B petitions filed on or after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on 21 September 2025.

This includes the FY 2026 lottery and all subsequent H-1B petitions.

The fee is additional to standard USCIS filing fees and represents a substantial cost increase for employers.

Who Is Protected

The Proclamation does not affect previously issued H-1B visas or petitions submitted before the effective date.

Current H-1B visa holders can continue to travel in and out of the United States without additional requirements.

Extensions and amendments for those already in H-1B status also remain unaffected in most cases.

Impact on Corporate Immigration

The substantial fee increase is designed to encourage employers to hire American workers rather than seeking H-1B sponsorship.

Companies heavily reliant on H-1B workers face significant additional costs, potentially affecting hiring strategies for skilled foreign workers.

Professional legal advice is essential for navigating these changes.

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