$100,000 H‑1B Visa Fee May Exceed Many Workers’ Salaries
The U.S. government has announced a major hike in the H‑1B visa fee, requiring sponsoring companies to pay $100,000 annually per visa. The policy, introduced on September 19, 2025, is part of a broader immigration reform aimed at limiting misuse of the visa system.
While some H‑1B holders in senior tech positions earn high salaries, many receive $60,000–$80,000 annually, especially in junior or entry-level roles. This means the new visa fee could actually exceed the salary of a significant number of H‑1B workers. Employers may now be discouraged from sponsoring early-career professionals or those in less profitable roles.
Experts warn that this change could reduce job opportunities for skilled international workers and concentrate H‑1B sponsorships within large tech firms able to absorb the cost. It may also increase outsourcing or push talent to more immigration-friendly countries like Canada or Australia.
Critics argue the policy will damage the diversity and competitiveness of the U.S. workforce. The fee structure, they say, punishes smaller companies and talented individuals who may not yet command six-figure incomes.
As the new rules take effect, both companies and international workers are reevaluating the future of U.S.-based employment.
