Trump Plans $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visa Applications

U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to introduce a new rule that will require a $100,000 fee for applying for an H-1B work visa. The White House says this move is part of Trump’s broader immigration crackdown.

The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to bring in highly skilled foreign workers, mostly from India (71%) and China (11%), to fill jobs in technology, engineering, education, and healthcare.

Currently, H-1B application fees are only a few thousand dollars. A $100,000 fee would be a massive increase. Big tech firms like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta may be able to afford it, but smaller companies and startups could struggle.

Supporters of H-1B visas say foreign workers are essential for America’s innovation and economic growth. Critics argue that the program lowers wages for U.S. workers.

It is still unclear who will pay the fee (employers or applicants) and whether this rule is legal. Immigration experts expect legal challenges once Trump signs the order.