President Donald Trump is set to introduce a hefty $100,000 application fee for H-1B worker visas, a move that could significantly impact the tech industry. This initiative is part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration rules. A White House official mentioned that the president might sign a proclamation as soon as Friday to enforce this new fee for H-1B visa applications.
The H-1B visa program has been a contentious issue, especially between Trump’s supporters and the tech sector, which has financially backed his campaign. Critics argue that the program drives down wages and takes jobs away from American workers. On the other hand, many in the tech industry, including notable figures like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, defend the program, saying it helps bring in skilled workers who are crucial for innovation and competitiveness.
The introduction of this $100,000 fee could raise operational costs for many companies. While larger tech firms may absorb this expense without much difficulty, smaller companies and startups could struggle to manage the financial burden. Currently, about two-thirds of H-1B visa holders work in computer-related jobs, but the program also serves other sectors, including engineering, education, and healthcare.
India has been the biggest beneficiary of H-1B visas, receiving 71% of approvals last year, while China accounted for 11.7%. In the first half of 2025, major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms secured thousands of H-1B visas, highlighting the program’s significance to their operations.
The announcement has already had an impact on the stock market, with shares of Cognizant Technology Solutions and Indian tech firms Infosys and Wipro dropping more than 2%. Microsoft declined to comment on the new fee, and other companies, along with Indian and Chinese officials, have not yet responded to inquiries.
Since taking office, Trump has pursued a broad immigration strategy that includes limiting various forms of legal immigration. This latest move to modify the H-1B visa program is one of the most significant actions taken by his administration regarding temporary work visas.
The H-1B program currently offers 65,000 visas each year for foreign workers in specialized fields, plus an additional 20,000 for those with advanced degrees. Under the existing process, applicants pay a relatively small fee to enter a lottery for the chance to apply, with employers typically covering most costs. These visas are usually valid for three to six years.
In a related development, last month, the U.S. began a pilot program that allows consular officers to require bonds of up to $15,000 for tourist and business visas from countries with high rates of visa overstays. This follows a travel ban affecting 19 nations, part of Trump’s broader immigration agenda, which has already deterred some visitors and impacted air travel.
Trump’s administration has attempted to impose stricter regulations on the H-1B program, aiming to prioritize higher-paying jobs for visa holders, but many of these efforts have faced legal challenges.
