Trump Introduces $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visa Applications

Beginning on September 21, 2025, President Trump has declared a new $100,000 fee for applying for H-1B work visas. Though initially unclear whether this charge was annual or one-time, the White House said it is a one-time expenditure. Though renewal rules are under debate, this new charge affects only new applications; it does not affect present visa holders or renewals.

Given that Microsoft, Amazon, and Indian IT businesses such as Infosys and TCS depend on qualified foreign employees, the choice has especially hurt the technology sector. Following the announcement, Indian tech stocks fell 2–5% and these companies may incur enormous costs. Critics wonder if such a hefty charge is appropriate, given that Congress only approved expenditures needed to handle the visa applications.

The policy has raised worries all around, but most notably in India, where 71% of H-1B visa holders are Indian. The government of India raised questions over the effect on employees and their families; introducing a $1 million "gold card" visa for quick residency attracted notice. Many believe these steps show how money is valued more highly than justice in American immigration.