By Rohtas Darshan Digital Desk | Updated: October 21, 2025 | Washington News :
US Homeland Security Provides Relief
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has clarified that the $100,000 H-1B visa application fee applies only to new applicants outside the U.S.
Existing H-1B visa holders or those already in the U.S. switching from F-1 student visas or renewing their status are exempt from the fee.
🧾 Who Pays and Who’s Exempt
• F-1 to H-1B conversions in the U.S. will not incur the fee.
• Extensions, amendments, or status changes for current H-1B holders are free of this charge.
• Fee applies only to new applicants outside the U.S. without a valid H-1B visa.
DHS has also released a new online payment link for eligible applicants.
⚖️ Legal Challenges Emerge
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a lawsuit against the fee, calling it “illegal and economically burdensome.”
This is the second major legal challenge against the Trump administration after labor unions, educational institutions, and religious groups filed a case on October 3, 2025.
💬 Trump Administration’s Position
President Donald Trump stated the policy aims to “prioritize jobs for American citizens.”
The White House clarified that the fee is a one-time application fee for new H-1B applicants only, not for renewals.
Impact on Indian Professionals
In 2024, over 70% of approved H-1B visas were issued to Indian professionals, primarily in IT and engineering sectors.
Experts warn that had the fee applied to all, it could have significantly impacted Indian tech professionals and U.S. businesses relying on skilled talent.
📊 About H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa allowing U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in technology, engineering, science, and finance.
Approximately 85,000 new H-1B visas are issued annually.
🕯️ Conclusion
DHS’s new clarification provides relief to millions of H-1B holders who were concerned about visa status and travel.
Current holders and in-country applicants can now renew or modify their visa without paying the new fee.
