The White House has moved swiftly to calm growing concerns within the U.S. technology sector and among foreign professionals following the recent announcement of a controversial H-1B visa rule.
In a major clarification released late Sunday, the administration confirmed that the newly introduced $100,000 fee will apply only as a one-time payment on new H-1B visa applications. According to the statement, the fee will not affect renewals, extensions, or current visa holders already residing and working in the United States under the program.
The H-1B visa, which enables U.S. employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers, particularly in the technology and healthcare industries, had faced a wave of uncertainty since the initial announcement. Industry leaders had warned that such a fee, if applied broadly, could stifle innovation, increase labor shortages, and reduce America’s competitiveness in attracting top global talent.
The White House clarified that the new policy is aimed at ensuring “greater investment and accountability” from employers bringing in fresh talent, while protecting existing foreign workers who have already settled and contributed to the U.S. economy.
“This is not a recurring or renewal fee. It is a one-time cost borne by employers sponsoring new H-1B applicants,” the official statement read. “We remain committed to a fair, competitive, and secure immigration process that balances economic growth with national interests.”
The clarification has been welcomed by many U.S. tech companies and foreign professionals, especially from countries like India, China, and Nigeria, which contribute significantly to the skilled workforce in Silicon Valley and beyond.
However, critics argue that even as a one-time cost, the $100,000 requirement will still pose a significant barrier for smaller companies and startups, potentially giving larger corporations an unfair advantage in securing top international talent.
The policy, which is expected to take effect in 2026, will likely face further scrutiny from Congress, industry stakeholders, and immigration advocates in the coming weeks.
For now, the clarification has eased fears of mass disruptions in the labor market, with the administration urging stakeholders to see the measure as a “strategic adjustment” rather than a deterrent.
0 Comments