The White House has clarified that the Trump administration’s newly announced $100,000 application fee for the H-1B visa program will not affect existing visa holders or those seeking renewals.
In a post on its official X account, the administration explained that the additional charge will apply solely to new applicants entering the program. The clarification follows widespread concern among foreign workers and U.S. employers who rely on the H-1B system to fill specialized roles in technology, research, and other high-skill industries.
According to the statement, individuals who secured spots in this year’s H-1B lottery — with visas scheduled to take effect from October 1 — will also be exempt from the new fee.
The administration defended the policy as part of a broader immigration reform agenda, arguing that the measure is intended to manage application volumes and ensure that companies prioritize American workers.
However, business groups and immigration advocates have warned that the steep fee could discourage global talent from applying, potentially harming U.S. competitiveness in fields such as software engineering, data science, and medical research.
The H-1B visa program, capped at 85,000 new visas per year, remains one of the most sought-after routes for skilled foreign professionals seeking employment opportunities in the United States.
