The recent H-1B proclamation imposing a $100,000 entry fee for international workers shocked the immigrant community. For weeks, confusion and panic spread across online groups and forums as people waited for clarity from the US administration.
No Extra Fee for Renewals and Stamping
Lawyers and visa holders have confirmed on social media that renewals and transfers are being approved without the new fee. Many travellers who went home for visa stamping have also returned to the US smoothly, without facing restrictions or added charges.
Confusion Over Implementation
Despite the official order stating that new H-1B petitions filed after September 21 must pay the $100,000 fee, there’s still no clarity on how or where to make this payment. The Trump administration appears unprepared, as its own statements contradict the White House FAQ released the next day.
No Clarity on Change of Status
The government hasn’t confirmed whether Change of Status (COS) or transfer petitions count as “new” applications under the rule. While such petitions are currently being approved without issues, lawyers believe the fee might apply from 2026 when the new lottery season begins.
Why Announce Without a Plan?
If this proclamation doesn’t impact current cases, why announce it now? Many believe it serves as a warning for next year’s applicants. However, without any real groundwork or system in place, the decision has only caused unnecessary panic among visa holders.
Uncertainty Among Workers and Employers
Even though stamping and re-entry are running smoothly, many H-1B holders remain nervous about future filings. Employers, too, are reluctant to hire H-1B or OPT workers, fearing policy instability under the unpredictable regime.
Legal Pushback Begins
The White House’s new entry restriction has already triggered two major lawsuits challenging its legality. For thousands of Indian professionals and students, this is a tense period where their future in the US feels uncertain with every policy shift.
