On September 21, 2025, new rules for the H-1B visa program were officially launched in the United States. These rules bring big changes for employers and foreign workers who want to work in the U.S. The changes come from a Presidential Proclamation signed by President Donald J. Trump on September 19, 2025. The new policies aim to protect American workers and make the visa program focus on high-skilled and well-paid jobs.
What is an H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a special work visa in the United States. It lets employers hire foreign workers temporarily in high-skilled jobs, especially in fields like technology, engineering, and science. To get the H-1B visa, the worker needs a job offer in a specialty occupation that usually requires a bachelor’s degree or higher.
The visa is important because it helps fill jobs where there are not enough skilled American workers. It allows companies in the U.S. to stay competitive by bringing in talent from around the world. The H-1B visa is also a common step toward permanent residency in the U.S. It is not a green card itself, but visa holders can apply for one while on the H-1B.
New $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visas
One of the biggest changes that started on September 21, 2025, is a new fee of $100,000. Every new H-1B visa petition filed after this date must include this payment by the employer. This is a one-time fee for new applications only. The rule does not affect renewals or visas applied for before this date.
This high fee aims to reduce abuse of the system by making employers think carefully before applying. It also tries to make sure the visa is used for “best of the best” workers who are highly skilled and well-paid. Smaller businesses and startups have expressed concerns that this fee could make it much harder for them to hire foreign talent.
Changes in the H-1B Lottery System
The government also proposed changing how the H-1B lottery works. Normally, when there are more visa requests than available visas (the cap is 85,000 per year), a lottery chooses who can apply. The new rules suggest giving priority to workers with the highest wages and the best skills. This means that applicants with higher salaries are more likely to get selected in the lottery.
This change is part of a larger plan to protect American wages and jobs. Many experts say it will favor highly paid tech workers and may limit opportunities for younger or less experienced workers.
Who Is Affected by These Changes?
The new rules mainly affect new H-1B visa applications filed after September 21, 2025. People who already have an H-1B visa or whose applications were filed before this date will not have to pay the $100,000 fee or follow the new entry restrictions.
The U.S. Department of State will also block entry to workers with new H-1B status unless the fee has been paid. However, people with valid and approved visas can continue to travel freely.
The Impact on Indian and Other Foreign Workers
India is the largest source of H-1B visa holders. These new rules have shocked many Indian professionals, especially those early in their careers. Because of the high fee and stricter rules, some Indian tech workers might look for jobs in other countries like Canada, the UK, and Germany, which are calling for skilled workers with less strict conditions.
Indian IT companies will need to adjust their hiring and transfer strategies due to these new regulations. Some experts believe the U.S. will see fewer skilled workers from India in the coming years.
What Is the H-1B Visa Process Now?
The process to get an H-1B visa still requires a U.S. employer to sponsor the foreign worker. The employer must first register electronically before the visa petition is filed. If the number of registrations is more than the visa available, the lottery system kicks in. After being picked in the lottery, the employer files a full application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Benefits of the H-1B Visa
Despite the new rules, the H-1B visa remains a valuable way for foreign workers to gain experience in the U.S. They can work in their field of expertise, earn good salaries, and potentially apply for permanent residency. For employers, it allows access to a global talent pool.
What Are Critics Saying?
Many in the tech industry are worried. Small businesses and startups say the $100,000 fee is too high and may stop them from hiring international workers. This could slow U.S. innovation and economic growth. Some experts think the new rules will mostly benefit big companies that can afford the fee.
Looking Ahead: More Changes Expected
The Presidential Proclamation also hints at more reforms to the H-1B program. In the coming months, there may be new rules about prevailing wage requirements and further prioritization of high-paid jobs. The goal is to make sure the program supports American workers while still allowing skilled foreign workers to enter.
Summary of Key Points
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| New Fee | $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa petitions after Sept 21, 2025 |
| Lottery Changes | Priority for higher wage and higher skilled applicants |
| Applicability | Applies only to new petitions filed after Sept 21, 2025 |
| Impacted Groups | New applicants, foreign workers outside the U.S. |
| Not Impacted | Existing H-1B visa holders and renewals |
| Main Goal | Protect American jobs and focus on high-skilled workers |
| Impact on Indian Workers | Reduced opportunities, shift to other countries |
The H-1B visa program is at a critical turning point. These changes reflect a new approach to skilled immigration in the U.S. Beginning September 21, 2025, employers and prospective workers must prepare for a tougher path to obtaining an H-1B visa. The focus is now on rewarding top talent and high salaries while protecting the American workforce.
This news is important for foreign professionals, U.S. employers, and policymakers. It will shape the future of how the U.S. brings in skilled workers. Keeping up with these changes is essential to make informed decisions and adapt to new immigration realities.
If you are planning to apply for an H-1B visa or employ someone under this visa, make sure to consult official USCIS resources and stay updated on the latest rules.
Also Read-
Leh Ladakh Erupts: Violent Statehood Protests Leave Four Dead, Spark Nationwide Curiosity
Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana: Haryana’s New Scheme Benefits, Eligibility, and Application Guide
Did the Varanasi Ghats Hold Eternal Secrets? India’s Spiritual Heart!