New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has decided to keep the $100,000 fee on H-1B work visas for another year. This charge, which was first introduced in September 2025 and that was scheduled to expire this month, was to expire this month. Trump’s delay has extended the window for the expensive rule, which will keep foreign workers at the mercy of companies.
The H-1B visa provides an opportunity for foreign workers in skilled occupations (engineers, scientists, computer experts, and more) to enter the United States through the H-1B option. These visas are generally just a couple of thousand dollars. But last year, Trump signed an order that added a huge $100,000 charge for new applicants. This visa has a price that has been causing consternation for Indian tech workers and the companies to which they work, as India remains the largest adopter of this visa scheme.
Since the fee started, it has faced strong opposition. Businesses and tech industry figures indicated that the provision greatly hinders the recruitment of foreign workers in smaller companies. A federal court even declared the fee to be illegal and suspended the government from collecting it in June 2026. The case is still being taken up by higher courts.
Regardless of the law suit, the Trump administration has continued with its plans. The Department of Homeland Security proposed to set the $100,000-plus fee permanently, rather than just until July 2027, in August 2026. This plan may be completed by the end of this year.
Supporters of a fee believe it will deter companies from employing cheaper foreign workers than Americans, and will provide an additional revenue stream for the government. The reverse can also occur, say critics, as talented workers and enterprises can relocate to other nations, potentially wounding America’s innovation.
Meanwhile thousands of foreign workers, particularly Indians, and many of the companies they work for are closely following this contentious and expensive visa rule as it’s resolved by the courts and the government.
