White House raises H1B visa fee to $100,000, denying entry to some

The White House has announced an increase in the visa fee for H1B visas to $100,000 per year. This change will take effect at midnight tonight, denying entry to any H1B visa holders currently outside the United States until their employers pay the updated fee.

Despite the fee increase, there is currently no federal treasury system portal available for employers to process this payment. The H1B visa program primarily serves skilled workers, with a significant number of these visas issued to Indian nationals. H1B visa holders are often employed in roles that involve frequent travel to India, where they may carry remittances, including precious metals, to avoid taxation.

This modification represents a significant restriction on the H1B visa program, enacted through executive branch powers, and is seen as a de facto measure that could impact many visa holders. The change allows for some exceptions, enabling certain European doctors and scientists to remain in the U.S.

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