Overview

• The White House said the charge is a single payment tied to a new H‑1B petition and does not apply to renewals or to current visa holders reentering the United States.
• The proclamation took effect September 21, 2025 and is slated to lapse on September 21, 2026 unless extended, with agencies directed to issue guidance and consider narrow national‑interest exemptions.
• Major tech employers advised H‑1B staff to avoid international travel or return to the U.S., set up hotlines for workers, and began weighing alternatives such as remote hiring, nearshoring and other visa categories.
• Analysts estimate employers could face roughly $14 billion in annual costs at recent petition volumes, with USCIS data showing computing roles dominate approvals and Indian nationals receive about 70% of H‑1B visas.
• Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups argue the president lacks authority to impose a fee of this magnitude and say court challenges are likely.