Trump Signs New H-1B Law: $100,000 Annual Fee and Stricter Requirements

On September 19, 2025, President Trump signed a new proclamation that brings sweeping changes to the H-1B visa program. The most striking provision: a $100,000 annual fee for all H-1B visa petitions, including renewals.

Key Provisions

Here are the main highlights of the new law:

• $100,000 Annual Fee – Both new applicants and renewal petitions must pay the fee, or they will be denied entry or extension.
• Entry Restrictions – Foreign nationals outside the U.S. who have not paid the fee will be barred from entering as H-1B workers, with limited exceptions for “national interest” cases.
• Documentation & Verification – Employers must retain proof of payment, subject to review by the State Department and DHS. Failure to pay will result in denial.
• Prevailing Wage Updates – The administration will initiate rulemaking to update wage requirements for H-1B workers, prioritizing high-skilled and higher-paid positions.

By dramatically raising costs and tightening wage rules, Trump’s move is designed to reshape the H-1B program into a much more exclusive pathway for only the highest-paid and most in-demand talent. The coming months will reveal whether these changes stand up in court, how employers adapt, and what it means for America’s ability to attract global talent.