$100K H-1B Visa Fee Not Annual: Trump Official Issues 3-Point Clarification

The Trump administration has clarified confusion surrounding the newly implemented $100K H-1B visa fee. The White House confirmed the fee applies only to new applicants and is not an annual or recurring charge, offering relief to current visa holders and those on renewal applications.

$100K H-1B Visa Fee: Who It Applies To and What It Means

On September 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation introducing a hike in H-1B visa application fees from the previous $2,000-$5,000 range to an unprecedented $100K. Concerns immediately arose, especially among Indian IT professionals and tech companies, about possible disruptions to operations and urgent travel back to the US for visa holders temporarily abroad.

However, the US administration issued a 3-point clarification ensuring this fee only applies to new H-1B petitions. The fee is a one-time charge, not an annual recurring cost. Importantly, current visa holders and those seeking renewals are not subject to this new fee.

3-Point Clarification from the White House

The White House press secretary addressed the ambiguity by stating: 

1. The $100K fee is not an annual cost but a one-time application fee.
2. Existing H-1B visa holders outside the US will not have to pay this fee to re-enter.
3. Renewals and travel for current visa holders remain unaffected by the proclamation.

This clarification comes amid reports that several companies had advised employees visiting India to return immediately. The updates confirm there is no need for a sudden return or panic.

Read More: Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee: Impact on Infosys ADR and the ‘Gold Card’ Alternative!

Industry Implications and Continued Diplomacy

The $100K visa fee may affect new international tech hires. However, with the exclusion of renewals and re-entry, it eases immediate pressure on firms and foreign talent. The White House also assured that any future immigration decisions would factor in US-India ties and the importance of mobility in innovation and economic growth.

Conclusion

Despite initial alarm over the $100K H-1B fee, the Trump administration clarified that it is applicable only to new applicants and is a one-time payment. Current visa holders and renewals remain unaffected, easing concerns for thousands of professionals and employers alike.

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