Overview

• The White House plan includes a proposed $100,000 one‑time H‑1B petition fee and higher salary thresholds, which officials say are meant to curb program abuse and undercutting of U.S. wages.
• Startup CEOs warn the cost will advantage large incumbents, squeeze smaller firms and junior hires, and push more hiring offshore.
• UK and Canadian leaders signal they will capitalize, with Britain moving to cut visa fees and Canada calling the U.S. fee an opportunity to attract top talent.
• Recruiters and relocation firms report early shifts, with Toronto’s Ribbon and the UK’s Immigram citing increased interest and overwhelmed inquiries following the announcement.
• Senators Chuck Grassley and Dick Durbin have reintroduced bipartisan legislation to tighten H‑1B and L‑1 rules, adding a parallel push in Congress.