Summary
The White House clarified that a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas will only apply to new applicants, not to those who already hold the visas. The fee, intended for high-skilled tech worker visas, began Sunday and could potentially be extended beyond its initial one-year term. The measure has raised concerns internationally, particularly from India, as many tech workers come from there.
Key Facts
- The $100,000 fee is for new H-1B visa applicants, not for current holders.
- The fee took effect immediately and could last for at least a year.
- The White House stated that the fee does not affect current visa holders’ travel rights.
- There is conflicting information regarding whether the fee is one-time or annual.
- Over 70% of H-1B visa holders are from India, which has expressed concerns about the fee.
- The change in policy could face legal challenges and is seen as bypassing Congress.
- Critics argue this move could hurt U.S. companies that rely on skilled foreign workers, and lower-paid H-1B visa workers may replace American workers.
