Amid the chaos over H-1B visa fees, good news from the US: 'Only new applicants...'

News Topical, Digital Desk : Amid the chaos surrounding the imposition of a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, the Trump administration has clarified that this fee is a one-time fee and applies to new applications. Existing visa holders or those seeking renewal will not be covered. This has brought significant relief to thousands of workers, including Indian IT professionals, working in the US.

Previously, it was reported that companies would have to pay $100,000 (about Rs 8.8 million) annually for employees holding H-1B visas. The H-1B visa is very popular among Indian IT professionals. It is valid for three years and can be extended for three more years. The fee hike order, effective at 12:01 a.m. on September 21, will make it more expensive for Indian professionals to travel to the US.

The new visa policy applies only to new applications.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Saturday that President Trump's new visa policy applies only to new applications that have not yet been submitted. Applications submitted before September 21st will not be affected. Those currently outside the US will also not have to pay a fee to re-enter the country.

White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said current visa holders will not have to pay this fee. Those who have already received their visas or are due for renewal will also not have to pay this fee. She added, “President Trump promised to prioritize American workers. This prudent move will prevent companies from exploiting the system and driving down wages.”

The new policy will not apply to applications already filed.

USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said in a memo that the order issued by President Trump on Friday applies only to applications that have not yet been filed. The proclamation does not apply to those who are beneficiaries of previously filed applications or whose applications have been approved.

White House Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt wrote on X, "To be clear, the $100,000 fee is a one-time fee, not an annual fee. This fee will be charged only at the time of application. Those who already hold H-1B visas and are currently outside the country will not be charged $100,000 for re-entry."

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