TL;DR

As of September 21, 2025, the U.S. government is imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications. This change affects individuals seeking entry into the United States under the H-1B program and has major implications for both foreign professionals and U.S. employers. Current H-1B holders are being advised to remain in the U.S. to avoid travel complications, and dependents (H-4 visa holders) are urged to follow the same cautionary guidance.

The landscape of U.S. immigration has shifted dramatically. On September 21, 2025, a proclamation went into effect requiring a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas. Unlike policy proposals that undergo lengthy review periods, this action took effect immediately—impacting thousands of workers, families, and businesses overnight.

What Does This Mean for H-1B Visa Holders?

• For those currently outside the U.S.: H-1B visa holders must act urgently. Re-entry into the United States now carries the risk of being subject to this enormous fee. Anyone outside is strongly urged to return immediately to avoid being locked out or forced to pay the new cost.

• For those inside the U.S.: H-1B holders already present are being advised not to travel internationally at this time. Leaving the country could mean being subject to the $100,000 fee upon re-entry. Extensions of H-1B status within the U.S., however, appear unaffected.

Impact on Employers

For U.S. employers who rely on skilled foreign workers, this policy represents a sudden and dramatic increase in costs. The new fee makes it significantly more expensive to sponsor new H-1B employees, potentially disrupting workforce planning, project timelines, and budgets. Employers should consult immigration counsel immediately to explore available options for protecting their workforce.

What About H-4 Dependents?

The proclamation does not explicitly mention H-4 visa holders (spouses and children of H-1B workers). However, legal experts recommend that dependents follow the same guidance as principal H-1B holders—avoid international travel until there is more clarity and prepare for possible downstream impacts.

Why This Matters

The H-1B program has long been a critical pathway for U.S. employers in technology, healthcare, research, and other industries to hire highly skilled professionals from abroad. A sudden $100,000 application fee could discourage talent mobility, create barriers for small and mid-sized businesses, and place heavy financial strain on families.

FAQs

1. When did the $100,000 H-1B fee take effect?
The fee took effect at 12:01 AM EDT on September 21, 2025.

2. Does this apply to current H-1B holders already in the U.S.?
No. Extensions inside the U.S. are not affected. However, if you leave the country, re-entry may trigger the new fee.

3. What if I am outside the U.S. on an H-1B right now?
You are strongly urged to return immediately to avoid being locked out or forced to pay the fee.

4. Does this proclamation affect H-4 dependents?
Not directly. H-4 dependents are not mentioned in the order, but they should exercise caution and follow the same travel advice as H-1B holders.

5. What should employers do now?
Employers should contact immigration counsel as soon as possible to assess their workforce needs, prepare for additional costs, and strategize ways to retain employees under H-1B status.