Trump govt moves to impose $103,265 fee for H-1B worker visas

The Trump administration is moving to permanently codify an unprecedented fee of over $100,000 for new H-1B visas, a measure previously halted by federal courts. The proposed regulation, published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, aims to make a $103,265 fee permanent, potentially being finalized by the end of the year. This fee dramatically escalates the cost of visas vital to the tech, education, and research sectors.

Previously, the H-1B program, which allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers with specialized training, offered 65,000 visas annually, plus 20,000 for advanced degree holders. These visas typically incurred fees between $2,000 and $5,000 before Trump's order. The new, significantly higher fee would not apply to foreign students already in the U.S. on student visas or to renewals of existing visas.

The H-1B visa program remains a point of contention. President Trump and his critics argue that many companies exploit the program by replacing American workers with cheaper foreign labor. Conversely, business groups and numerous companies assert that the visa program is essential for addressing shortages of qualified American workers and for attracting top global talent.

Legal challenges are ongoing, with lawsuits claiming the administration's power to restrict entry does not permit overriding the law that established the H-1B program. Additionally, challengers argue that the Department of Homeland Security cannot impose fees without congressional approval. The administration maintains the fee is not a traditional tax and that courts have limited power to question the president's authority over immigration.