US H1B Visa Program: New Clarifications

 

By

Dr. Somita Chakraborty

Recently, the US President Donald Trump signed an executive order and increased the H1B visa fees to USD $100,000. The announcement created tremendous confusion and anxiety among US companies and its employers. The confusion began as the US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that the companies would have to pay the required fee each year for six years.

However, later the US Government clarified that the fee would be a one-time payment. Moreover, it is not applicable for any current visa holder to travel to/from the US. The order ‘only applies to future applicants in the February (2026) lottery who are currently outside the US. It does not apply to anyone who participated in the 2025 lottery.’

For detail

Trump adds$100,000 fee for skilled worker visa applicants

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