Trump’s H-1B visa fee hike applies only to new applicants: White House

Hyderabad: The Trump administration has clarified that the newly announced $100,000 H-1B visa fee will apply only to new applicants, not to existing visa holders or renewals. This clarification came from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt following confusion over the scope of the new rule.

The new regulation, which takes effect from 12:01 a.m. on September 21, 2025, triggered panic among companies and visa holders. Several US-based tech firms had reportedly asked H-1B employees abroad to return within 24 hours and instructed those inside the US not to leave. These instructions were based on assumptions that the increased fee might apply retroactively or during re-entry.

However, the White House has now stated that the fee is a one-time charge applicable only at the time of petition filing. “This is not an annual fee. It applies only to new visa petitions,” Leavitt said. She confirmed that current H-1B holders can continue to travel in and out of the US as per existing rules.

To be clear:

1.) This is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies only to the petition.

2.) Those who already hold H-1B visas and are currently outside of the country right now will NOT be charged $100,000 to re-enter.

H-1B visa holders can leave and re-enter the…

— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) September 20, 2025

White House says H-1B visa fee hike will not affect renewals

The clarification also noted that the fee will not affect renewals or those already holding valid visas. It will only apply in the next H-1B lottery cycle, expected to start after the rule’s implementation date.

Despite this, uncertainty had already prompted strong reactions across India. Many questioned why companies were recalling H-1B workers if the fee did not apply to them. The administration has yet to explain the basis for such urgent instructions.

Around 70% of H-1B visa holders in the US are Indian nationals, most of whom work in technology and IT services. Many use the visa as a pathway toward permanent residency. Any change in H-1B policy has a direct impact on Indian tech professionals working in the US and their long-term plans.

The Trump administration framed the fee hike as part of broader immigration reforms. However, critics argue that the move threatens jobs held by Indian workers and imposes a financial barrier on skilled foreign professionals.