The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has waived the $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications for foreign professionals and students already residing in the country.
The clarification means that applicants seeking a change of status, an extension, or an amendment of their existing H-1B visa within the U.S. will be exempt from the hefty fee. This includes individuals moving from student (F-1) status to an H-1B visa or those changing employers domestically.
The $100,000 fee, introduced under a September 2025 proclamation, still applies to new petitions outside the United States. The measure was initially aimed at curbing outsourcing practices and ensuring that companies hire more local talent.
The exemption provides a significant respite to international professionals, particularly Indian tech workers, who make up a large share of H-1B visa holders. It also benefits U.S. employers who rely on global talent for specialised roles in technology, research, healthcare, and education.
The decision has been welcomed by industry bodies and immigration experts. They see it as a balanced move that protects U.S. labor interests while keeping the country a top destination for global talent.
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