President Trump issued a proclamation on Friday imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications. According to the White House, the fee does not apply to existing H-1B visa holders or those already selected in the 2025 lottery. The proclamation is aimed at new entrants to the program.

Please find the key highlights below.

What’s happening

• President Trump signed a proclamation that restricts entry into the U.S. for new H-1B applicants unless their employer pays a $100,000 fee per employee.
• The White House clarified that current H-1B visa holders are not affected, including those traveling abroad and returning to the U.S.
• Payment instructions for the new fee have not yet been released.

Effective Date

The new fee requirement takes effect September 21, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. EDT.

Impact to Individuals

• Affected: New H-1B applicants. According to the White House Press Secretary, it will first apply in the next upcoming lottery cycle. It remains unclear as to whether it applies to nonprofit organizations and universities who can file new petitions prior to the upcoming lottery.
• Not affected: current H-1B visa holders.

Duration

• The restriction is initially valid for 12 months, but it may be extended.
• Legal challenges are expected, and additional guidance may be issued.

FAQ: H-1B Proclamation

Q1: What does the proclamation do?
Beginning September 21, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. EDT (9:01 p.m. PT September 20), new H-1B applications will require an additional $100,000 fee. Those who already hold H-1B visas and are currently outside of the US will not be charged $100,000 reenter.

Q2: I am currently in the U.S. in H-1B status. What should I do?
The White House has clarified that you are not impacted by the new fee. You may continue working and traveling without restriction under your valid H-1B status. H-1B visa holders can leave and re-enter the country to the same extent as they normally would.

Q3: What if I am outside the U.S. with a valid H-1B or H-4 visa?
The proclamation does not affect current H-1B visa holders re-entering the U.S. No additional fee applies to you.

Q4: Does this impact other visa categories?
No. The proclamation only applies to new H-1B petitions. Other categories (L-1, TN, O-1, etc.) are not affected.

Q5: Does this affect H-1B extensions or changes of status within the U.S.?
No. Extensions and changes of status filed from within the U.S. remain unaffected