USCIS Confirms F-1 Students Exempt from $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee
This clarification offers significant relief and clarity for international students in the US and their potential employers regarding H-1B visa costs.
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Article Summary
The USCIS has clarified that F-1 visa holders seeking a change of status to H-1B, or an extension/amendment, are exempt from the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee. This policy specifically targets companies bringing in foreign graduates directly, not those who have studied in the US, and applies to those changing status from OPT to H-1B.
Original Article: timesofindia.indiatimes.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 clarification offers significant financial relief for companies looking to hire international students already in the US on F-1 visas, directly impacting hiring strategies and making the H-1B pathway more viable for US-educated talent. For F-1 students, it removes a substantial cost barrier, easing the transition from Optional Practical Training (OPT) to H-1B status.
While some have labeled this an H-1B fee 'loophole,' experts suggest it is a deliberate policy to encourage foreign students to pursue higher education in the US, potentially reversing recent trends of international students opting for universities in other countries. This move could increase the competitiveness for H-1B visas among US-educated graduates, as the cost barrier for their employers is significantly reduced.
