The $100,000 H-1B Fee
The Change
U.S. immigration rules will require a one-time $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa petitions. While current H-1B holders and renewals are not affected, this is one of the most significant changes to business immigration in years.
What It Means for Employers
Budget impact: Businesses, especially small and mid-sized companies, will need to factor this cost into their hiring strategies.
Talent planning: Companies may prioritize retaining current employees rather than filing new H-1B petitions.
Compliance spotlight: With a fee this high, job descriptions and salaries will be scrutinized more carefully to ensure they qualify as legitimate high-value positions.
What It Means for Skilled Workers
Timing will be critical. Those considering applying should evaluate whether to file before the new rule takes effect.
Applicants may see fewer employers willing to sponsor unless the role is essential or uniquely specialized.
How to Prepare
Employers: Begin workforce planning now, explore whether alternative visa categories (such as L-1 or O-1) may be more cost-effective, and ensure full compliance with wage and job duty requirements.
Workers: Stay informed on the timeline for the rule change and consider whether to accelerate application plans.
Bottom line: This fee change signals a shift toward prioritizing high-value roles for H-1B visas. Strategic planning today will help both businesses and workers stay competitive in the new landscape.
