US Plans New Fee of Over $100,000 for H-1B Work Visas

The Trump administration has moved to impose a new fee of more than $100,000 for H-1B visas, a program that allows US employers to hire skilled foreign workers in specialised fields such as technology, engineering and science.

According to reports, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is preparing to propose this steep new fee as part of a broader package of changes affecting employment-based immigration. DHS is also expected to propose adjustments to fees related to the OPT program, or Optional Practical Training, which allows international students to remain and work in the US for a period after completing their degrees.

The H-1B visa has long been a central pathway for American companies, particularly in the technology sector, to recruit workers with specialised expertise that may be difficult to find domestically. A fee exceeding $100,000 would mark a dramatic increase from current costs associated with the visa process, potentially reshaping how companies approach international hiring.

The proposal has not yet been finalised, and such regulatory changes typically undergo a formal review and public comment process before becoming binding policy. It remains unclear how long this process might take or whether the fee amount could be altered before implementation.

Industry observers suggest that a fee of this scale could significantly affect smaller firms and startups that rely on H-1B visas but may lack the financial resources of larger corporations to absorb such costs. Some analysts argue the move reflects a broader effort by the administration to tighten controls on employment-based immigration, while critics warn it could push companies to relocate hiring or operations overseas.

The plan is likely to draw strong reactions from various stakeholders, including business groups, immigration advocates and lawmakers. Supporters of stricter immigration measures may view the fee as a tool to prioritise American workers, while opponents may argue it could harm the country's ability to attract global talent. As the proposal moves through the regulatory process, further details are expected to emerge regarding its scope and timeline.