5 Things You Need To Know About The H-1B Visa Fee Hike

US President Donald Trump on Friday announced a new rule that raises the fee for H-1B visas to $100,000 (₹88 lakhs approx.), effective from September 21. This massive fee hike sent shockwaves across firms, which warned H-1B visa holder employees and their families abroad about being stranded or denied entry to the US if they failed to return on time.  Now, US official Karoline Leavitt, 36th White House Press Secretary, has cleared all doubts surrounding the visa hike. Here’s what you need to know about this change.

H-1B Visa Fee Hike: All You Need To Know

Here are five important things you need to know about the H-1B visa hike. Knowing these will not only keep you updated but also clarify who is affected and who is not.

5 facts about the H-1B visa hike

1. The Trump administration introduced this hike to protect American jobs. It aims to curb the misuse of this visa program.
2. The H-1B visa hike does not impact current visa holders.
3. It applies only to applicants in the next lottery cycle, which will begin around March 2026.
4. This is not an annual fee. It is a one-time fee for new petitions.
5. In addition to that, those who already hold this visa and are currently outside the US will not be charged $100,000 to re-enter. They can leave and return as usual.

Also Read: Mandatory Interviews Back In Play: What The New US Visa Rules Mean For You

Relief For Indian Professionals

As per a report by Hindustan Times, this announcement brings relief to many Indian professionals who were alarmed after companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, and JP Morgan started issuing notices urging staff to remain in the US. Many Indians abroad were also asked to return before September 21.

The sudden introduction of this visa hike raised fears among families abroad of being stranded if they did not return. With the facts now clarified, H-1B visa holders can take a sigh of relief as the fee does not apply to current holders.

It should also be noted that the H-1B visa also allows companies to hire overseas workers with expertise to work in the United States. The visa is initially valid for three years, with the possibility of renewal for a further three years.

Also Read: New US Visa Policy Requires Students To Make Social Media Profiles Public For Screening

The announcement by Karoline Leavitt has certainly reassured current H-1B visa holders. However, new applicants will face the hefty $100,000 fee (₹88 lakhs approx.) when the next lottery cycle begins. What do you think of these changes? Let us know!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Matthis Volquardsen and Kaboompics.com (Representative Image)