USCIS Clarifies $100,000 H-1B Fee Exemption for Change of Status Applicants
This USCIS clarification offers a crucial pathway for H-1B applicants already in the U.S. to avoid a substantial visa fee, significantly impacting individual and employer strategies.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed about latest H1B news, policy updates and and other developments.
Article Summary
USCIS has clarified that a USD 100,000 H1B visa fee will not apply to applicants seeking a "change of status" or "extension of stay" within the US. This means individuals entering on other visas, such as F-1 or L-1, and later switching to H-1B domestically can avoid this fee. The fee proclamation is set to apply to new H-1B petitions for beneficiaries outside the US from September 21, 2025, onwards.
Original Article: tribuneindia.com
[ Sentiment: positive | Tone: factual ]
This summary and analysis were generated by TheNewsPublisher's editorial AI. This content is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
[ Sentiment: positive | Tone: factual ]
This summary and analysis were generated by TheNewsPublisher's editorial AI. This content is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
TNP AI: Key Insights
This USCIS clarification provides a significant strategic workaround for the proposed $100,000 H-1B fee, offering substantial financial relief for both employers and skilled professionals already residing in the U.S. on other visa types. It underscores the administration's complex approach to skilled immigration, balancing fee imposition with practical pathways for certain applicants.
For employers, this guidance means they can strategically leverage the 'change of status' option to mitigate the considerable financial burden of the H-1B fee, particularly when converting international students or L-1 visa holders already within the U.S. For individuals, it highlights a critical path to H-1B status that sidesteps a prohibitive cost, potentially influencing career planning and visa strategies for those currently in the U.S.
