7 Things to Know About Trump’s New $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Friday, September 19, that will impose a staggering $100,000 fee on all H-1B visa applications. The move has sent shockwaves through the tech industry and beyond. Here’s what you need to know:

1. The Fee Is Mandatory for All Applicants

The order makes it clear: unless the $100,000 fee is paid, entry under the H-1B visa program will be restricted.

2. It’s Part of a Broader Crackdown

The Trump administration has long argued that the H-1B program is exploited by companies to hire lower-wage foreign workers, suppressing U.S. salaries. This fee is the latest in a series of measures designed to curb immigration for work opportunities.

3. Tech Giants May Absorb the Costs — Startups Might Not

While major firms like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta regularly spend big to recruit top talent, the new cost could crush smaller tech firms and start-ups that rely on the program to grow.

Read also: Trump Threatens Licenses of TV Stations That Criticize Him

4. The Fee Could Undermine U.S. Innovation

Critics warn the move could discourage the “world’s smartest talent” from coming to America. “If the U.S. ceases to attract the best talent, it drastically reduces its ability to innovate and grow the economy,” said venture capitalist Deedy Das on X.

5. India and China Will Feel It the Most

Last year, India accounted for 71% of H-1B visa approvals, with China in second at 11.7%. That means the financial burden will disproportionately hit applicants and companies connected to these two nations.

6. The Stakes Are Huge for Tech Jobs

About two-thirds of H-1B positions are computer-related. But the visas also cover engineers, educators, and healthcare workers — meaning the impact will ripple beyond Silicon Valley.

7. Big Tech’s Dependence on H-1B Talent Is Enormous

In just the first half of 2025, Amazon had more than 10,000 visas approved, while Microsoft and Meta each had over 5,000. For these companies, the new fees could amount to billions if they maintain current hiring levels.