Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, DC, Sep 22: The US State Department on Sunday provided clarification on President Donald Trump’s recent H-1B visa proclamation, aimed at easing concerns among Indian professionals and tech companies. The department confirmed that the new $100,000 fee applies only to new H-1B visa petitions filed after 12:01 am Eastern Daylight Time on September 21, 2025, including entries in the 2026 lottery.

Officials stressed that existing visa holders and petitions submitted prior to this date will not be impacted. The fee does not apply to H-1B renewals, nor does it restrict current visa holders from travelling in and out of the United States.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph B. Edlow reiterated that the proclamation is prospective, affecting only new petitions. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the $100,000 fee is a one-time payment, not an annual charge, and will not be levied on those currently holding H-1B visas, even if they are abroad.

The administration also indicated upcoming reforms to the H-1B programme, including a Department of Labour initiative to raise prevailing wage levels and a Department of Homeland Security plan to prioritise high-paid, high-skilled applicants in future lotteries.

Authorities assured that consistent guidance has been issued across agencies, and current H-1B holders do not need to return to the US immediately or pay the new fee.