What You Need to Know: Big Changes to the H-1B Visa Program

 

 

A major shift in U.S. immigration policy is set to impact the H-1B visa. Starting September 21, 2025, a new requirement will affect both employers and employees in the H-1B process.

 

 

What’s Changing

• Employers sponsoring new or renewing H-1B visas must now pay an additional $100,000 fee per application.
• The rule applies to anyone entering the U.S. after the deadline. Even if you already hold an H-1B visa, traveling abroad and returning could trigger the new fee.
• Proposals are also underway to raise required wage levels and increase government scrutiny, especially for applications filed at lower wage tiers.

 

Who Is Affected

• Individuals outside the U.S. waiting for H-1B visa stamping or planning to travel for employment.
• H-1B holders whose spouses or children on H-4 visas are abroad and planning to return.
• H-1B holders currently in the U.S. are not immediately affected if they remain here. However, those who recently traveled abroad for vacation or personal reasons could be impacted when re-entering after September 21, 2025 .

 

What You Should Do Now

• If you or someone you know holds H-1B status or is applying, contact an immigration attorney immediately to understand how these changes may affect your case. Those abroad should consider returning to the U.S. before 12:01 am EDT on September 21, 2025 if possible to avoid being caught by the new rule.
• Employers should review the financial impact and adjust their hiring or sponsorship strategies accordingly.
• Seek counsel regarding the national-interest waiver exception to the entry ban

At Perry & Alznauer, we are closely monitoring this major H-1B policy change and its impact on workers, families, and employers. We encourage you to stay connected by following and/or and by subscribing to all of our social media channel for the latest immigration updates. Don’t wait until it’s too late — protect your status and seek trusted legal guidance today.