President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday establishing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications. Federal officials have clarified that the fee will apply only to new petitions beginning with the upcoming lottery cycle. It does not apply to existing visa holders, renewals, or petitions already filed. In addition, individuals holding valid H-1B visas will not face the fee when reentering the United States, according to clarification from the White House.
The H-1B program allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialized occupations requiring advanced knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific specialty. Employers in sectors including technology, health care, and engineering often use the program to fill high-demand roles.
Business groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, have raised concerns that the new fee would raise costs for companies that rely on highly skilled workers and hinder competitiveness.
Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts said, “The Kentucky Chamber is concerned about the potential impact of this order on employers, their workforce, and their ability to compete. We are committed to working with our members to ensure that business costs are not unnecessarily raised and that companies in Kentucky can continue to attract the talent they need to innovate and grow.”
The Bottom Line will continue to follow this issue as more details emerge.
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