Overview

• A presidential proclamation signed Friday orders DHS to restrict decisions on H‑1B petitions lacking a $100,000 payment for 12 months starting September 21, targeting beneficiaries currently outside the United States.
• The administration says the charge applies to new filings and, per Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, renewals; a $1 million “Gold Card” for expedited residency was unveiled, and a $5 million “Platinum Card” would require congressional approval.
• India’s foreign ministry and industry group Nasscom voiced concern over humanitarian and business‑continuity risks and criticized the one‑day implementation window.
• Immigration attorneys and companies urged H‑1B workers and dependents abroad to return before the effective date to avoid potential travel disruptions.
• Legal experts argue the executive branch lacks authority to impose such a fee and expect court challenges, while Lutnick said major companies were briefed and predicted fewer H‑1B uses as firms weigh costs.