Clarity on H-1B Fee Brings Relief to Indian Tech Workers in US
The Trump administration clarified the USD 100,000 H-1B visa fee only pertains to new visa applications, not affecting current holders or renewals. This decision eases anxiety among many H-1B visa holders, especially Indian professionals. The move aims to prioritize American workers and curb system misuse.

The Trump administration has eased anxieties regarding a new USD 100,000 fee for H-1B visas by specifying that it applies only to newly filed petitions. Existing visa holders, therefore, are not subject to this one-time charge. This clarification comes as a significant relief to many professionals, including those from India.
On Saturday, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the fee applies solely to new H-1B visa petitions and not to renewals or current visa holders. Clarifications also ensure that visa holders currently outside the United States are not obliged to pay the fee for reentry.
According to White House officials, this measure aims to prioritize American workers. President Trump emphasized hiring Americans and ensuring high-skilled foreign workers are not misused within the system. The initiative is part of a broader policy to curb misuse and ensure that only valuable talent is imported.