The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has recently issued crucial updated guidance regarding the $100,000 fee associated with H-1B visas. This clarification arrives amidst ongoing legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce against the previous administration’s rules, which were described as “unlawful.”
Key updates for current H-1B visa holders indicate significant relief. Individuals transitioning to H-1B status from other visa types, such as F-1 student visas, will be exempt from the $100,000 application fee. Furthermore, existing H-1B workers who require amendments, changes of status, or extensions of stay within the United States will also not face this new fee requirement.
In a substantial positive development for current H-1B visa holders, the updated guidelines confirm they will not be prevented from traveling internationally. This proclamation is specifically targeted at new visa petitions for individuals located outside the U.S. who do not currently possess a valid H-1B visa. An online payment portal has been made available for these new applications.