The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a proposed rule change affecting H-1B visa petitions, signaling a major shift in the U.S. immigration program. This move follows recent high-profile fraud investigations into the H-1B visa program by the Trump administration.

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation in September 2025 mandating a $100,000 fee on all new H-1B visa applications. This fee is intended to act as a powerful financial deterrent to employers seeking low-cost foreign labor.

The H-1B visa program currently offers 65,000 regular slots annually, with an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants holding a master’s degree or higher. Most existing H-1B visa holders working in the U.S. can renew their status or change jobs without competing for these limited slots.

Historically, the program has been heavily utilized in California’s tech industry but has expanded to universities, nonprofits, and various companies nationwide. Despite initial attempts, the Trump administration had struggled to address issues within the program until this recent proclamation.

Americans have expressed concern over the increasing number of H-1B visa holders residing in the country. The new fee aims to encourage employers to prioritize recruiting American workers before turning to foreign labor.

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There are some discrepancies in reported fee amounts and slot numbers across sources, with figures ranging from $100,000 to $103,265 and slot counts between 65,000 and 85,000.