On September 19, 2025, President Trump issued a Presidential Proclamation introducing a new $100,000 fee for certain H-1B petitions. NPZ Law Group previously shared the details of this Proclamation and its potential impact on employers and workers.
Since then, additional updates from professional associations suggest that the fee may apply only to new H-1B petitions for workers outside the United States, rather than to current H-1B visa holders or individuals reentering the U.S. after travel.
Key Clarifications Emerging
- Not an Annual Fee:Â Early indications are that the $100,000 payment is tied to the petition process, not a recurring annual charge.
- Current H-1B Holders Abroad: Informal updates suggest that workers already holding valid H-1B visas should not be required to pay this fee simply to return to the U.S. after travel.
- Focus on New Petitions:Â The new payment requirement appears to primarily target new visa petitions, not renewals or extensions for those already working in the United States.
- Still Unconfirmed:Â These clarifications are based on preliminary information and have not yet been published in official DHS or State Department guidance.
What Employers and Employees Should Do
At this stage, employers and workers should continue preparing for significant changes in the H-1B process while also watching closely for formal guidance from DHS and the State Department.
NPZ will provide updates as soon as official rules are published. In the meantime, if you have questions about how this Proclamation may affect your workforce or immigration plans, please reach out to our office.
Contact NPZ Law Group For personalized immigration guidance, contact us at 201-670-0006 or email info@visaserve.com