Trump Signs Executive Order Raising H-1B Visa Fee to $100000
The H-1B visa program has seen one of the biggest changes in its history. President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order imposing a steep H-1B visa fee $100000, sparking shockwaves across the tech industry and among thousands of foreign professionals in the United States.
This move, announced from the White House, is being positioned as a step to protect American workers. But critics warn that the H-1B visa fee $100,000 could disrupt industries heavily dependent on international talent.
What is the H-1B Visa H-1B Visa Fee $100000
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. companies to hire foreign professionals in specialized fields such as:
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Technology
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Engineering
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Healthcare
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Education
Key facts:
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Nearly two-thirds of H-1B jobs are computer-related (government data).
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Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta employ thousands of H-1B workers.
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Supporters like Elon Musk argue the program fills talent gaps.
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Critics say it allows firms to suppress wages and sideline American workers.
Now, with the H-1B visa fee $100,000, the debate has intensified more than ever.
Trump’s Executive Order
On September 19, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order that includes:
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A H-1B visa fee $100,000 for each application or renewal.
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Enforcement starting September 21, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET.
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Travel restrictions, meaning H-1B holders abroad may not reenter unless the fee is paid.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said:
“A hundred-thousand dollars a year for H-1B visas, and all the big companies are on board. Train Americans. Stop bringing in people to take our jobs.”
Tech Industry Reaction
The tech industry, which relies heavily on foreign talent, responded immediately to the H-1B visa fee $100,000 policy:
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Amazon advised nearly 15,000 H-1B employees not to travel abroad, warning that reentry may be impossible without payment.
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Microsoft sent an internal memo urging workers to “stay in the U.S. for the foreseeable future.”
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Meta and JPMorgan also issued similar warnings to their staff.
For companies built on innovation, the H-1B visa fee $100,000 adds a massive cost burden and raises uncertainty for employees.
Project Firewall: New Enforcement
Alongside the fee increase, the U.S. Department of Labor launched Project Firewall to:
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Investigate employers abusing the H-1B system.
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Protect American workers’ wages and rights.
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Enforce penalties like fines, back wages, and bans from the program.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer stated:
“Project Firewall will root out fraud and abuse in the H-1B visa process. The H-1B visa fee $100,000 ensures that companies prioritize Americans for jobs.”
Impact of the $100,000 Fee
The new H-1B visa fee $100,000 could have far-reaching effects:
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Tech Companies: Higher costs may reduce foreign hiring.
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Foreign Workers: Visa renewals and reentry may become unaffordable.
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American Workers: Possible increase in job opportunities.
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Healthcare & Education: Shortages of skilled professionals may rise.
The H-1B visa fee $100000 is now a central issue for both businesses and employees.
Trump’s Gold Card Idea
While raising the H-1B visa fee $100000, the Trump administration is also considering a “Gold Card” visa aimed at ultra-skilled workers. This premium pathway could give easier entry for top talent, creating a two-tier system of immigration.
Infosys Stock and Global Reaction
Global IT outsourcing giants like Infosys depend heavily on H-1B visas. Following the H-1B visa fee $100000 announcement, Infosys stock showed volatility, highlighting how deeply international companies are tied to U.S. visa policies.
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s decision to impose a H-1B visa fee $100000 marks a turning point in U.S. immigration and employment policy. While the goal is to “train Americans” and prioritize domestic jobs, the policy may also hinder innovation and global competitiveness.
As tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and JPMorgan prepare for the changes, thousands of foreign professionals holding H-1B visas are left uncertain about their future.
The coming months will show whether the H-1B visa fee $100000 strengthens the American workforce or weakens the U.S. position as a hub for global talent.
References
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U.S. Department of Labor Press Release (Sept 19, 2025)
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Business Insider reports on Amazon & Microsoft memos
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Federal H-1B program data
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