Overview

• President Donald Trump’s proclamation imposing a $100,000 charge on new H‑1B petitions is in effect, with the White House clarifying it applies only to first‑time applications and not renewals.
• Indian students and graduates are reconsidering U.S. paths as Germany and the U.K. signal easier entry for skilled workers, China launches a new tech‑talent visa, and Canada indicates forthcoming proposals, with South Korea exploring options.
• Several U.S. medical associations asked Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to exempt physicians and other medical personnel from the fee, and no exemptions have been announced.
• A Data for Progress survey conducted Sept. 26–28 finds 50% of U.S. likely voters disapprove of the $100,000 H‑1B fee, while most favor keeping or increasing highly skilled immigration.
• Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang warns the steep cost could deter global talent, disadvantage startups, and push investment abroad, even as the administration frames the policy as protecting U.S. jobs; employers are responsible for paying the fee.