Starting September 21, H-1B workers abroad face stricter rules, fee hikes, and entry denials without employer payment; DHS prioritizes higher-paid applicants, with limited exemptions
Washington DC
Major US tech and finance companies have issued urgent advisories for their H-1B employees following President Donald Trump’s recent visa fee increase. The annual H-1B visa fee has been raised to USD 100,000, effective September 21, prompting firms like Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Nasscom and JP Morgan to warn employees to remain in the United States and avoid foreign travel.
The fee hike mainly affects H-1B workers who are outside the US. Starting September 21, workers without payment from their employers may be denied entry, including those with pending petitions, new applications, or visas yet to be filed. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will prioritise higher-paid applicants, while the Department of Labor (DOL) will adjust prevailing wages alongside the fee. National-interest exemptions may apply in certain cases, though detailed guidelines are yet to be announced.
Microsoft asked employees to return to the US before the September 21 deadline and recommended H-1B and H-4 visa holders remain in the country to avoid reentry issues. Amazon also urged staff to return promptly and stay in the US, while Meta instructed employees abroad to return within 24 hours and remain in the country for at least two weeks until the rules are clarified.
JP Morgan sent a notice to employees ordering them back in the US by 12:01 AM ET on September 21. H-1B holders were advised not to travel outside the country until further updates.
Nasscom, an industry body, warned that the visa fee will disrupt Indian IT firms’ U.S. operations, increasing costs and affecting onshore projects. It added, “The H-1B workers for these companies by no means are a threat to national security in the US.”
The new policy has caused concern among global tech employees and companies, highlighting challenges for international talent mobility. Experts say these changes may affect project timelines, workforce planning, and the broader tech industry, as firms adjust to ensure compliance while supporting their overseas staff.
