Washington: The Trump administration recently announced a major increase in the H-1B visa application fee, raising it to $100,000 (approximately Rs 83 lakh). The sudden announcement triggered widespread concern among both employees and companies. Many firms reportedly urged their Indian staff to return to the U.S. immediately, leading to flights being booked within a single day and a sharp rise in ticket prices. Several visa holders expressed anxiety about their travel plans and future prospects, fearing the fee could also impact those already holding H-1B visas.
In response to the confusion, the White House clarified the details of the new policy. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media platform X that the $100,000 fee is not annual, but a one-time charge applicable only when applying for a new H-1B visa. She emphasized that existing visa holders traveling abroad or renewing their visas are not affected by the fee.
Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Suspends the Entry of Certain Alien Nonimmigrant Workershttps://t.co/k46jPq4pg5
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) September 20, 2025
Leavitt further explained that the one-time fee aims to streamline the H-1B application process and will apply only to future applicants. Current visa holders can continue to travel freely to and from the U.S., and the policy does not change any provisions for renewals. The clarification is expected to ease concerns among Indian professionals and companies heavily reliant on H-1B talent.