US President Donald Trump recently signed a proclamation introducing a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications as part of his ongoing efforts to tighten immigration policy. The H-1B visa program is intended to allow highly skilled workers to legally work in the US for a limited period. US tech companies, in particular, have benefited from this program, with India and China being the largest recipients. In 2025, over 70% of the program’s beneficiaries came from India. Annually, a limited number of 85,000 visas are available under two categories. Currently, visa applicants must pay a fee to participate in a lottery; if selected, they must pay an additional fee to process the application.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the new fee aims to encourage companies to recruit more American workers. Trump emphasized the need for skilled workers, asserting that the new policy will ensure that this requirement is met. The president’s decision comes amid efforts to curb immigration and protect American jobs.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/trump-announces-100-000-fee-for-h-1b-visa-applications/a-74071063?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
