H1B Bombshell: $100K Fee Slapped, Tech in Crisis

In a shocking move, the White House has announced a new rule imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications. This decision has sent ripples across the tech industry and immigrant communities worldwide.

Proclamation on H-1B Visa Holders

On 19th September 2025, the President of the United States issued a proclamation restricting the entry of H-1B visa holders outside the U.S. Their entry will only be permitted if their employer pays a $100,000 fee per petition.

Reason Behind the Fee

The government claims the rule aims to curb the “abuse” of the H-1B programme. Officials argue that foreign workers have displaced American employees, lowered wages, and created national security concerns.

Impact on the Tech Industry

The rule will come into effect from 21st September 2025. Tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google could face billions of dollars in extra costs as a result of this proclamation.

Departments to Enforce New Rules

The proclamation instructs the Department of Labour (DoL) to draft rules for higher prevailing wages for H-1B employees. It also directs the Department of Homeland Security to give preference to highly skilled and highly paid workers.

A Shift in Immigration Policy

This rule marks a major shift in U.S. immigration policy by creating an expensive barrier to hiring skilled foreign talent. Though valid for 12 months, it is uncertain whether the rule will be extended further.

Restrictions on B Visas

Additionally, the proclamation requires the Department of State to prevent misuse of B visas as a way to bypass the H-1B restrictions.

Future of Immigration Rules

The full impact of this decision remains unclear. What is evident, however, is that the U.S. government has taken another strong step to restrict immigration into the country.