Article Summary

A new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, introduced by presidential proclamation, will apply to new foreign applicants from September 21, 2025. USCIS has clarified that F-1 students, L-1 visa holders, and current H-1B holders already in the U.S. are exempt from this fee when filing for a change of status or renewal. This exemption ensures international graduates can transition to H-1B professional roles without incurring the substantial new cost, primarily targeting new overseas hires.

TNP AI: Key Insights

This USCIS clarification is crucial for H-1B stakeholders, particularly F-1 students, as it definitively exempts those already within the U.S. from a substantial new $100,000 fee for H-1B applications. This decision directly impacts the career trajectory of thousands of international graduates, ensuring a smoother and more affordable transition from academic to professional roles within the U.S. without the added financial burden.

The imposition of this fee, stemming from a presidential proclamation, represents a significant shift in U.S. skilled immigration policy, specifically targeting new applicants from abroad. While intended to regulate access, the exemption for in-country status changes highlights a strategic effort to retain skilled talent already integrated into the U.S. education and employment ecosystem, providing a competitive advantage for employers seeking to hire from the domestic pool of international graduates.