Trump to Impose $100,000 Fee on H-1B Visa Applications

Lead: President Donald Trump is set to sign a proclamation today introducing a $100,000 application fee for H-1B work visas in a bid to curb alleged program abuse and protect U.S. workers.

Nut Graf: The unprecedented fee hike marks the most significant overhaul of the H-1B system in decades, targeting technology and consulting firms that rely heavily on skilled foreign labor. Advocates say it will level the playing field for American employees, while critics warn of severe talent shortages.

Key Details

New Fee Requirement

  • A $100,000 surcharge will be required on all H-1B petitions filed under the annual cap this fiscal year.
  • Existing $215 lottery and $780 petition charges will be replaced or supplemented by the new fee.

Rationale and Objectives

  • Administration claims program misuse has displaced American workers and suppressed wages.
  • Proclamation directs the Labor Secretary to initiate rulemaking on prevailing-wage levels for H-1B roles.

Industry Impact

  • Major IT services firms saw stock declines: Infosys shares fell 4.5% today after the announcement.
  • Technology companies warn of potential talent gaps, suggesting the fee could deter critical hires.

Reaction and Next Steps

Political Response

  • Supporters applaud the tougher stance on immigration, citing protections for domestic labor markets.
  • Opponents-including business coalitions and tech associations-plan legal challenges, arguing the fee exceeds statutory authority.

Implementation Timeline

  • Fee takes effect immediately upon signing; petitions received without the new payment will be rejected.
  • Labor Department rulemaking on wage definitions expected to begin within 60 days.

Broader Context

  • This measure follows other immigration fee increases enacted under H.R. 1, including revised asylum and work-permit charges.
  • It underscores the administration’s broader agenda to tighten employment-based visa programs ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

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